[PAST EVENT] W&M Theatre presents "Big Love"

October 2, 2014
8pm
Location
Phi Beta Kappa (PBK) Memorial Hall
601 Jamestown Rd
Williamsburg, VA 23185Map this location
Inspired by the Greek play, The Suppliants by Aeschylus, Big Love puts a modern twist on an ancient tale of feminism, family ties, and domestic violence. Costume designer, Patricia Wesp and William & Mary senior and sound designer, Jess Hoover, both take inspiration from tradition and spin it into something fresh and contemporary while scenic designer, Matthew Allar, and lighting designer, Steve Holliday transport us to present-day Italy. Director Liz Wiley says, Physical theatre is exciting and edgy! This is a traditional play that has been turned on its ear. Big Love is nothing short of a spectacle. Expect to hear some interesting, and sometimes unpopular, opinions on gender roles.

Big Love details the journey of 50 young women fleeing Greece in order to escape the anticipated confinement to a life dictated by arranged marriages. Wiley adds, I love the title, Big Love. It's big because such an ancient Greek play still exists and is still popular and relevant. Seeing 100 men and women struggling with these issues is big! The play begins when the women arrive in Italy and attempt to convince a young bachelor named Piero, his flamboyant nephew, and his elderly mother to let them stay as refugees in their manor. After the women threaten to commit suicide if left to their husbands, Piero begrudgingly allows the women to stay for the night. The play focuses on three of the sisters and their opposing views on their situation as they discuss pertinent issues like freewill, rape, and independence. When the men catch up to them, the play takes a dark turn as the women are forced to make difficult decisions while standing up for what they believe in.

Tickets for Big Love are on sale now. This show contains adult content due to its violence, language, and brief nudity, and is recommended for ages 17 and up. The prices for single tickets are $15 for adults and $7 for students. A four-show season ticket is $50, and $70 for a six show season ticket. Faculty, staff, and military discounts are also available by contacting the PBK Hall Box Office at 757-221-2674.

Tickets are always available online at {{http://www.wm.edu/boxoffice, the box office}}. Show times are Thursday, October 2nd, through Saturday, October 4th, at 8pm and a Sunday, October 5th, matinee at 2pm. Performances are all in the main auditorium of Phi Beta Kappa Memorial Hall on the campus of the College of William and Mary, located at 601 Jamestown Road in Williamsburg.
Contact

757-221-2674