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NU Theatre presents unflinching drama 'The Wrestling Season'

by jmaloni

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Mon, Sep 15th 2014 12:40 pm

Niagara University Theatre kicks off its 51st season of productions with "The Wrestling Season," by Laurie Brooks, on stage at the Leary Theatre Oct. 16-20.

Steve Braddock, director of Niagara University Theatre said, " 'The Wrestling Season' is a timely drama that reveals devastating issues many young people confront at school and in the community. NU Theatre is proud to continue to provide such 'outreach' dramas to spotlight critical topics affecting the lives of students of all ages."

Directed by adjunct professor Amanda Lytle Sharpe, this perceptive and poignant play tackles subject matter seldom addressed, but vital to youth and their families: the search for identity and the peer pressure that accompanies it. Using only the setting of a wrestling mat as a metaphor for the conflicts, betrayal and complicated camaraderie experienced by most teens, eight young people struggle with the devastating power of rumors and how others see them. 

An insightful glimpse into the destructive influence of gossip and clique behavior among young people, this family/school event offers astute dialogue following each performance.

Note: This drama contains adult subject matter and is suitable for high school students and adults.

"The Wrestling Season" will be on stage in the Leary Theatre within the Elizabeth Ann Clune Center for Theatre, Clet Hall at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, and Monday, Oct. 20; and at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 17, and Saturday, Oct. 18. 2 p.m. matinees will take place Saturday, Oct. 18, and Sunday, Oct. 19.

Costume, hair and make-up design is by Maureen T. Stevens, associate professor/costume, hair and make-up designer. Set design is by David Dwyer, associate professor/scenic designer and production manager. Light design is by adjunct faculty member Jayson Clark, and sound coordination is by adjunct faculty member Glenn Bernardis. Stage manager is theater performance major Ian Francis LaLonde of Buffalo. Assistant stage manager is theater design/technology major Keelin Higgins of Clarence.

Niagara University theatre performance majors who are in the cast include: Johnny J. Barden IV (Matt) of Buffalo; Alana Arman (Kori) of Grand Island; Lauren Parrow (Melanie) of Fairport; Matt Dell'Olio (Luke) of Ontario, New York; Clarissa Maloy (Heather) of Niagara Falls; Kevin Trala (Jolt) of Lackawanna; Josh Ranallo (Willy) of Buffalo; Colleen Pine (Nicole) of Indian Lake; and Heather Casseri (Referee) of Tonawanda.

There are multiple ways to purchase tickets for NU Theatre productions: online at http://theatre.niagara.edu/; in person at the box office in the lobby of the Elizabeth Ann Clune Center for Theatre, Clet Hall (Monday-Friday 2:30-5:30 p.m., and one hour prior to curtain); call 716-286-8685; or email [email protected]. Voicemail messages and emails are returned as soon as possible.

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