Father Flynn (Cody Glover) talks with Sister James (Lori Williamson) about the accusations against him.
Lee University Theatre will open the 2015-16 season with “Doubt: A Parable” by John Patrick Shanley. The production will run Oct. 2-3 and Oct. 8-10 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 4 at 2:30 p.m. in the Buzz Oates Theater, located in Lee’s Communication Arts Building.
“This is a beautifully-crafted play that in a short evening of theatre packs quite a punch,” said Dr. Christine Williams, associate professor of theatre and play director.
“Doubt: A Parable” features the story of a 1960’s parish in New York struggling with the suspicion of abuse in the priesthood. Elder nun Sister Aloysius suspects the young and charming Father Flynn of inappropriate behavior towards a child in the parish school. Young nun Sister James is unsure of whom to trust and support as she is placed in the middle of two powerful figures.
“This play has several layers, and it is sure to be thought-provoking,” said Dr. Williams. “In this piece, Shanley writes about not only the Catholic church, but religious hierarchy in general as well as commenting on the tendency in our society to assume guilt based on very few facts. Shanley gives us much to consider regarding our faith and how we approach those around us we might suspect of various deeds.”
Lee students acting in the play include Kate Bosch as Sister Aloysius, Lori Williamson as Sister James, Cody Glover as Father Flynn and Apryl Jaye Raymond as Mrs. Muller. Seika Kang, also a student, is serving as the light designer for the show. Jared Cole, visiting lecturer in theatre, is in charge of scenic design, while Dr. Williams is coordinating costume and sound design.
Broad Street United Methodist Church will host a play discussion for “Doubt” on Wednesday, Oct. 7, from 6-7 p.m. It will be an opportunity to talk about the play with the director and cast and discuss some of the issues that appear in the play. Dr. Williams will lead the conversation and the church will provide childcare.
Tickets will be available at the box office located in the Communication Arts Building Monday through Friday, 3-6 p.m., and one hour prior to each show. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for children, seniors, and students. You can reach the box office by calling 614-8360 or emailing theatre@leeuniversity.edu.
Broad Street United Methodist Church is at 155 Central Ave. NW in Cleveland.
For more information, visit www.leeuniversity/edu/theatre or email theatre@leeuniversity.edu. Fans may also follow Lee University Theatre on Facebook.