Theatre department presents “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” Sept. 29 to Oct. 2

Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike - Sept. 29 to Oct. 2

Hesston College Theatre will present four performances of the fall play Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike by Christopher Durang from Sept. 29 through Oct. 2, at the Keim Center Black Box Theater. Showtimes are at 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. The show is intended for high school age and older.

Winner of a 2013 Tony Award, the play depicts middle-aged siblings Vanya and Sonia who share a home in Bucks County, Pa., where they bicker and complain about the circumstances of their lives. Suddenly, their movie-star sister, Masha, swoops in with her new boyfriend, Spike. Old resentments flare up, eventually leading to threats to sell the house. Also on the scene are sassy maid Cassandra, who can predict the future, and a lovely young aspiring actress named Nina, whose prettiness somewhat worries the imperious Masha.

“This is a comedy everyone can relate to,” said director Celaine Worden. “It’s a universal story about our fear of change and finding the courage to form new friendships and experiences. The script is hilarious and brilliantly written.”

The cast includes Hesston College students Desirae Rodriguez, Sam Setiawan, Alexis Driscoll, Alexa Coburn; Hesston College alumnus Mitchell Stutzman; and faculty member Michele Hershberger. First year student Sophia Crawford is the stage manager.

Ticket prices are $5 for students and $10 for adults and seniors. Tickets can be purchased in advance through the Hesston College Bookstore or by phone at 620-327-8105. Seating is limited and will follow Hesston College health guidelines.

High school students are invited to a matinee performance during the annual Hesston College TheatreFest on Wednesday, September 28. This day-long event is structured to equip actors and tech crew members with skills necessary in the theatre industry, advance their abilities and have fun. Students will have an opportunity to audition and interview for a theatre scholarship after the performance. To register and learn more, visit hesston.edu/theatrefest.