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Waiting for Godot Examines Life
Five talented Virginia Wesleyan students bring the fall theatre production to life, Oct. 21 – 25.
By Kelly Brennan ’13 | October 13, 2009
“What are we waiting for?” It’s a question Virginia Wesleyan College’s Theatre Department will address in their fall production debut of Samuel Beckett’s play, Waiting for Godot, Wed., Oct. 21– Sun., Oct. 25.
The production is a tragicomedy revolving around two main characters, Vladimir and Estragon, who spend their time waiting under a tree for Godot. While waiting, the two encounter a few bizarre characters, Lucky, Pozzo, and a boy who continually relays the message of Godot’s absence to the two men.
Dr. Sally Shedd, director and professor of theatre, believes the play is an icon of 20th century theater and has themes/messages that speak to everyone.
“Beckett takes a very common, universal experience, and stages it in a non-traditional way,” said Shedd. “Some of the most wonderful things in life come in non-traditional packages.”
Shedd said she chose the piece because she believes it’s a masterpiece that has redefined dramatic literature.
Oct. 21-24 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 25 at 2 p.m. in Virginia Wesleyan's Hofheimer Theatre. Admission is $10 and free to Virginia Wesleyan students, faculty and staff. “It’s a play that people have been grappling with since its debut in 1953,” said Shedd. “It is, however, a worthwhile struggle,” she added.
Kyle Ulsh ’11, a double major in Communications and Theatre from Chesapeake, Va., plays Estragon, a character who is run by his emotions and the most forgetful of the two men. Ulsh encourages everyone to see the play at least once.
“There is at least one point in time where somebody is waiting for something to happen. They aren't sure what, and they aren't sure why, but they are waiting nonetheless,” said Ulsh. “This show will make you think about events in your own life.”
Waiting for Godot marks Ulsh’s sixth production so far at Virginia Wesleyan.
“Just the whole experience of performing is great, and to play such a different kind of role is both a challenge and a reward,” said Ulsh of his theatrical experiences.
Waiting for Godot will be preformed Oct. 21-24 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 25 at 2 p.m. in Virginia Wesleyan's Hofheimer Theatre. Admission is $10 and free to Virginia Wesleyan students, faculty and staff. Reservations are strongly encouraged. Please call 757.455.3381.
Megan Z. Shearin contributed to this article.