The Kayenta Arts Festival in conjunction with Douglas Caputo, Richard Hill, and Christa Gross presents Davit Mamet’s “Oleanna.” This contemporary two-character play’s subject material closely resembles the recent court case and ongoing conflict wherein Dixie State University and the City of St. George wrongfully accused Varlo Davenport of assault. The play runs Sept. 8–10, 15–17, and 22–24 at 7:30 p.m. Performances will be given at The Room for Thought in Kayenta Art Village, located at 873-D Coyote Gulch Court in Ivins.
“This is a pared-down production,” cautions director Caputo. “Our audience should arrive expecting intensely intimate and compelling performances from actors Richard Hill and Christa Gross and some of the most timely, confronting material ever performed in our area. Not lavish costumes or scenery.”
Originally produced 1992, “Oleanna” is a contemporary examination of timeless issues including social morality and political correctness in the context of a professor/student relationship.
This production is set in the present day with the intent of connecting today’s distractions and commentary to Mamet’s seminal material that is nearly 25 years old.
All profits will benefit the completion of the new Center for the Arts located in the Kayenta Art Village.
“We are committed to do all that we can to ensure the completion of The Center for the Arts in Kayenta,” Caputo said. “It is one of the most important steps in creating the future of alternative theater and art in southern Utah.”
“We cannot write huge checks as some generous donors have,” added actor Christa Gross, “but we can participate in a grassroots, ground level activism and make our own contribution to help achieve this goal in creating a home for alternative theater in our community.”
Seating is limited due to venue size, and the production is expected to sell out. Tickets are $20 and are available at kayentaartsfoundation.org. Student pricing is available.
“Oleanna” contains mature content and is not recommended for children. “Oleanna” is produced in cooperation with Dramatists Play Service Inc.
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