UNA Theatre Presents Pulitzer Prize-Winning Drama

May. 6, 2015

Carole Maynard, University of North Alabama Music and Theatre

FLORENCE, Ala. – UNA Theatre will present Marsha Norman’s Pulitzer Prize-winning drama “’night, Mother,” May 11-14, 20 and 21, at 7:30 p.m. in the George S. Lindsey Theatre on the UNA campus. 

The play centers on Jessie and her mother, Thelma, as the two discuss Jessie’s decision to commit suicide that very evening. 

“I think suicide is always an uncomfortable topic to talk about and very hard for some to understand how a person is left with only that option,” said Charlton James, theatre professor and director. “I thought this play might provide a platform for our community to express our feelings and concerns about this particular topic and hopefully provide some answers as to how to prevent suicide or help those struggling with suicidal thoughts or inclinations.” 

The production features two casts of UNA students: Thelma will be played by Shiloh Shelton (May 11, 13 and 21) and Leslee Tank (May 12, 14 and 20), and Jessie will be played by Phoebe Jones (May 11, 13 and 20) and Payton Ayers (May 12, 14 and 21). 

“I think we currently have a great group of female actors at the university, and I thought they deserved an opportunity to experience the journey that a play like this provides,” said James. “The audience will be amazed by the quality of the performances.” 

Tickets for the production are $10 for adults and $5 for all students and UNA faculty and staff (must show ID). Tickets are available online at una.edu/music-theatre (service fee will apply), at Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts, and at the door. 

For more information: the UNA Department of Music & Theatre at (256)765-5122 or visit una.edu/music-theatre.