Coming to the Eastern Michigan University Theatre, Ken Stevens is directing his final production called Sylvia. This interesting twist on how marriages face adversities was originally created by A. R. Gurney. Not only does this play aim to bring on laughter, it also plans to impress with impeccable actors who are some of Eastern Michigan’s Alumni.
Sylvia is a production that will have the audience wagging their imaginary tails as they watch the story of a troubled married couple and a dog unravel. Greg is a hardworking man who needs an escape from the frustrations of his life and is in desperate need of a one-way ticket to a better life than the one he’s living. His wife of 22 years, Kate, on the other hand is in need of affection and support of her sky rocketing career. Sylvia is a dog who is lost just like her owner Greg. She is in need of love and a home to feel comfortable and needed in.
After finding Sylvia in the park, Greg brings home the stray dog with hopes that she will be the missing factor that the home needs. Unbeknownst to Greg, Kate and Sylvia are in dire competition vying for his attention and affection. No one wants to see Kate lose her husband to a dog, but no one can deny that with the Sylvia’s shiny thick coat and love for Greg, she is true competition for Kate.
Also, some more hilarious elements of the play include: Tom, a fellow dog-owner from the park, Phyllis, an old college friend of Kate’s and Leslie, an androgynous marriage counselor who shares a special relationship with the main characters.
If the plot isn’t compelling enough, scrounge up some school spiriting and support actors who are pouring their heart out onto the stage and breaking a leg.
Sylvia stars four EMU students including Sami White as Tom, Phyllis and Leslie, recent graduate Josie Lapczynski in the title role of Sylvia, and EMU alumna Pam Cardell as Kate. Playing the role of Greg is EMU alumnus and guest artist Dennis Cockrum, whose resume includes a number of television and film roles and who can currently be seen as Terry Milkovich on the SHOWTIME series, Shameless.
Ticket prices for Sylvia are $15 regular admission, $12 for students & seniors, and $9 for MAINSTAGE patrons, no further discounts apply. Tickets are available in person at the Convocation Center, the Student Center ticket office or the Quirk Box Office, by phone at 734.487.2282, and online at www.emutix.com.
Please note that there is an additional surcharge for tickets purchased by mail, phone or online. For more information about EMU Theatre, their season and directions to their theatres visit emich.edu/emutheatre, like them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter @emutheatre.