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The Shadowbox, a play by Michael Cristofer
August 7-8, 14-16, 21-23

directed by Jim Thorpe
 

This work interweaves the lives of three dramatically different terminally ill patients and their loved ones to give a dynamic, well-rounded perspective of death and dying. The richness of the play is exemplified by its unity. The action takes place during the course of one day, on a hospital campus. The source for Cristofer’s inspiration was his personal experience with two close friends dying of cancer. Offering varying perspectives of characters, comprising three different plots, gives the work a certain objectivity in its discussion of a sensitive subject.

Thematically, the work touches on the dehumanizing quality death imposes on Cristofer’s patients. Other considerations are also explored— characters choose to be remorseful, engage in reminiscence, confront their disease or exist in a state of denial, or lash out in anger. The brilliance of the work and its success at dealing with such tender subject matter is precisely that it draws no moral conclusions, only offers various perspectives for the audience to ponder without compromising the serious nature of terminal illness. Celebrated by critics for its insight, perceptiveness, and humor in dealing with controversial subject matter, it is not surprising that the work earned Cristofer both a Pulitzer Prize and a Tony Award in 1977.

Friday, August 7, 8pm
Saturday, August 8, 8pm
Friday, August 14, 8pm
Saturday, August 15, 8pm
Sunday, August 16, 3pm
Friday, August 21, 8pm
Saturday, August 22, 8pm
Sunday, August 23, 3pm

TBA

STAFF
Director – Jim Thorpe


 

Ticket price is $15.00. Group rates available for 10 or more in advance. Sorry, no credit cards. Checks and cash only.

4th STREET THEATER