Niagara University Theatre kicks off its 52nd season with a spellbinding play, Afflicted: Daughters of Salem by Laurie Brooks, a timely drama that reveals devastating issues many young people confront at school and in the community. NU Theatre is proud to continue to provide such “outreach” dramas to spotlight critical topics affecting the lives of students of all ages.
Directed by Steve Braddock, director of Niagara University Theatre, this powerful reimagining of the events leading to the infamous witch trials explores how girls have negotiated alliances and power throughout history, just as they do today. Themes investigated are adolescent rebellion, as well as manipulation as a form of bullying. An insightful exploration of the psychology underlying the crucible of events that shaped early American history, this exceptional family/school event offers insightful audience interaction following each performance.
Afflicted: Daughters of Salem will be on stage in the Leary Theatre within the Elizabeth Ann Clune Center for Theatre, Clet Hall, at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 1, and Monday, Oct. 5, and at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 2, and Saturday, Oct. 3, with 2 p.m. matinees on Saturday, Oct. 3, and Sunday, Oct. 4.
Costume, hair and makeup design is by Maureen T. Stevens, associate professor/costume, hair and makeup designer. Set design is by Anna Krempholtz (East Aurora, N.Y.), theatre performance major and design tech minor. Light design is by associate professor/scenic designer and production manager David Dwyer and sound coordination is by adjunct faculty member Glenn Bernardis. Stage manager is theatre design/production major Keelin Higgins (Clarence, N.Y.). Assistant stage manager is theatre performance major Sabrina Kahwaty (Amherst, N.Y.).
Niagara University theatre performance majors who are in the cast include: Christine Turturro (Ann Putnam) of Croton-on-Hudson, N.Y.; Briegette Bullock (Mercy Lewis) of Webster, N.Y.; Bradeen Walders (Abigail Williams) of Albion, N.Y.; Katie Rose Gould (Mary Warren) of New Castle, Pa.; Alana Arman (Betty Parris) of Grand Island, N.Y.; and Ember Tate (Tituba) of Corona, Calif.
For more information and tickets, please visit http://theatre.niagara.edu.