ETSU’s Department of Theatre and Dance will be using their upcoming fall productions to comment on current world issues such as racism, as well as reflect upon other issues that happen between family, a person’s self and external issues.
Titles including “Appropriate” by Brandon Jacobs-Jenkins, “Every Person”, an adaption by Bobby Funk of the 15th century play “Everyman”, as well as ETSU’s own Musical Theatre Showcase will all address the issues all students and faculty hear and see today.
“The issues we felt were important to the times and is a relevant play,” department chair Karen Brewster said about their most recent production, “Appropriate”.
“Appropriate” by Jacobs-Jenkins tells the story of siblings who recently lost their patriarch, which causes them to work together on selling the family’s plantation.
“The show [Appropriate] deals with the casual racism often perpetuated by white culture; family and family secrets; the relationship between siblings, parents, and children; coming home; and the ghosts that follow and live with us,” said assistant theater professor Jonathon Taylor.
Similarly, “Every Person”, adapted from “Every Man”, discusses man’s struggle with good versus evil. In the original work, mankind is presented as a single character, which the play draws its title from. Adapted to be more inclusive, the 15th century play will still address these same moral conflicts with a modern twist.
Lastly, the Musical Theatre Showcase will allow majors and non-majors alike to showcase their musical abilities. Songs selected beforehand will address or have themes of societal issues being faced today.
“Appropriate” by Brandon Jacobs-Jenkins will be available online Oct. 9 at 7 p.m.
“Everyman” Adapted by Bobby Funk will be available online on Oct. 30 at 7 p.m.
The Musical Theater Showcase will be available online on Dec. 4 at 7 p.m.
