| The
Francis Marion University Theatre's first mainstage production of the
2008-2009 season
will be The Elephant Man by Bernard Pomerance. The Elephant Man was first produced in London at the Hampstead Theatre. It soon moved to New York and opened Off-Broadway at the Theatre of St. Peter’s Church, and then to Broadway and the Booth Theatre. Pomerance’s play earned good reviews and a number of awards, including a Tony Award, the New York Drama Critics award, the Drama Desk Award, and the Obie Award. THE STORY: The play is based on the true story of a man whose body is hideously deformed, but within is a remarkably sensitive and intelligent being. Merrick is exploited by Victorian society and philanthropy. He is befriended by an ambitious and brilliant young surgeon who looks after him in his last few years finding him a home in a London hospital where the lovable freak's presence is shrewdly used for fund raising. Merrick is introduced to high society, becoming dependent on the success his deformity brings him. A well known actress tries to ease his sexual loneliness, but her efforts are thwarted by hypocrisy. Even those who love him can't help him and ultimately he dies from his horrible affliction. The play was so successful that it was turned into an even more successful Hollywood film in 1980. -- Samuel French Play
Service
|
 "Utterly
fascinating....
A distinguished piece of work." N.Y. Daily News.
"A thoughtful, moving and worthwhile play." N.Y. Times. "At heart in addresses the simple issue of what it means to be human" N.Y. Daily News. |
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Reservations for The Elephant Man may be made beginning October 13 by calling the box office at 661-1365. The box office will be open to reserve seats Monday through Friday from 1 pm to 5 pm. All tickets are free to the public. Curtain is at 7:30. The Francis Marion University Theatre's 2008-2009 season will conclude April 16-18 with A Night of Samuel Beckett. There will be no Winter Production this season so the Francis Marion could host the Palmetto Dramatic Association / South Carolina Thespians High School Theatre Festival in February. For additional information contact Mr. Gourley in FAC 224, 661-1538, agourley@fmarion.edu. Interested in working "behind the scenes"? Contact Mr. Granath in FAC 222, 661-1536, dgranath@fmarion.edu. |
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