SU Theatre Presents 'Private Lives' Oct. 9-18

SALISBURY, MD---What are the chances that a divorced couple will hold their second weddings at the same time, honeymoon at the same hotel and end up right next door to each other?

In Noel Coward’s Private Lives, the odds are pretty good.

Salisbury University’s Bobbi Biron Theatre Program inaugurates its 2009-10 season with a production of this 1930 classic Friday-Sunday, October 9-11, and Thursday-Friday, October 15-18, in the Black Box Theatre of Fulton Hall. Curtain is 8 p.m. Thursday-Friday, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday.

Directed by Robert Smith of SU’s Theatre and Dance Department, the production follows ex-spouses Elyot Chase and Amanda Pryne as they attempt to embark on their new lives with new mates … only to find themselves with adjoining suites at their honeymoon hotel. Their former passions—and tempers—flair.

“Coward was the most successful theatre artist of the 20s and 30s, and possibly invented the modern persona of the artist/celebrity,” said Smith. “Often described as a witty comedy of manners, Private Lives is cited by many critics as one of the best of the genre.  It's an interesting exercise for student actors—both difficult and fun."

The cast includes Dara Parsons as Amanda Pryne, Paul Richardson as Victor Pryne, Alyssa Mullins as Louise, Elizabeth Mears as Sibyl Chase and Matt Lewis as Elyot Chase. The crew includes set designer David Shuhy, lighting designer Thomas Anderson and stage manager Lauren Danzig.

The Stage calls Coward’s play “a sheer delight from start to finish.” The New York Times calls it “swift and witty.” Playbill hails its “Verbal sparring and comedic dexterity.”

Admission is $15, $12 for seniors 62 and older. SU ID holders receive one ticket free. This production is recommended for mature audiences. For tickets and more information call 410-543-6228 or visit the SU Web site at www.salisbury.edu.