KU Theatre will open its season with a provocative play that aims to “combat age-old constructs of exhaustion and repression through a diverse array of modern feministic and queer viewpoints.”
“Collective Rage: A Play in Five Betties” is a dark comedy by Jen Silverman that explores prejudice and injustice surrounding gender identity, according to KU.
“As five Betties follow what is happening in this world, they set out to do something important, each in their unique way. They take audiences with them into the electric air of new experiences and relationships,” according to a KU Theatre message about the play.
“A Shakespearean play within a play and bluntly feminine puppetry advances the narrative and conveys a powerful, courageous transformation in this dark comedy,” the message continued. “Many of the Betties’ stories combat age-old constructs of exhaustion and repression through a diverse array of modern feministic and queer viewpoints.”
The production includes KU alum and “Sesame Street” puppeteer Spencer Lott, and Grace Townley of Simple Mischief Studios, who designed three puppets. It’s directed by Marzi Ashrafian, and the cast of five Betties includes Enya Sullivan, Natalie Loftus, Maya Perez, Jayden Warf and Mak Mendelsohn. See the full cast list and creative team at kutheatre.com.
The production is not appropriate for all audiences. It also uses flashing lights. The play runs 90 minutes and has no intermission, and there is no reserved seating. People who use wheelchairs or need other seating accommodations may contact the box office to make specific arrangements.
The show premieres at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 6, with additional performances set for 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Tuesday (Oct. 10), Wednesday (Oct. 11) and Thursday (Oct. 12). There’s also a 2:30 p.m. matinee on Sunday, Oct. 8. Performances will be held at the William Inge Memorial Theatre in Murphy Hall, 1530 Naismith Drive. A talkback with the cast and dramaturg will follow Tuesday’s performance.
KU Theatre warns that there may be parking conflicts, with Late Night in the Phog on Friday evening and the KU football game Saturday.
Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and KU faculty and staff, and $10 for KU students.
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