HIGH POINT, N.C., Nov. 5, 2015 – Slamming doors, on and offstage intrigue, and errant plates of sardines? It all seems to add up in High Point University Theatre’s upcoming production of “Noises Off.” Performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 19-21 and at 2 p.m. on Nov. 22 in the Hayworth Fine Arts Center. Tickets are available by contacting the HPU Box Office at 336-841-4673.
“Noises Off” by Michael Frayn is a classic farce that includes not one play, but two. The show follows the cast of a play called “Nothing On” and the backstage drama that develops during their final rehearsal prior to opening night. The two stories begin to interlock as the characters make their exits from “Nothing On” only to find themselves entering the even worse nightmare that’s happening backstage.
Ed Simpson, director of the production and chair of the HPU Department of Theatre and Dance, says the show promises to be a fun, laugh-filled event.
“‘Noises Off’ is perhaps the funniest play ever written. It is also one of the most difficult plays to perform,” Simpson says. “As such, it’s a great opportunity for our students to challenge themselves and grow as actors while giving our audiences a wonderful evening of live theatre.”
Featured performers include seniors Mackie Quirk, Fletcher Armstrong and Roxanne Daneman, junior Lucie Stewart, sophomores Graham Jackson, Ceili Lang, Teddy Dallam and Matthew Hollis, and freshman Paul Way. Sarah Steele is the stage manager. Sets and lights are designed by assistant professor Matthew Emerson, and costumes are designed by theatre instructor Gay Hensley.