SART Kicks Off Its 2016 Season with Greater Tuna
The Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre announces its 2016 performance schedule that, this year, will feature tour de force performances by newcomers and longtime favorite actors.
“Because of the continuing renovation of our historic Owen Theatre, we’re performing in Spainhour Hall of Moore Auditorium on the campus of Mars Hill University,” says SART Executive Producing Director Bill Gregg. “And we’re thrilled to be able to continue performing as we await the renovations to Owen Theatre and opening our new James W. Thomas Black Box Theatre in Troy and Pauline Day Hall.”
The main fare of the season’s offerings will be the entirely fun and energetic comedy Greater Tuna, a tour de force for two actors the play is set in fictional Tuna Texas and two actors perform over twenty roles in under two hours. The rapid costume changes are sure to boggle the mind.
The schedule of shows for the summer includes performances of Greater Tuna opening Wednesday, June 29, 2016 at 7:30 pm and closing with a matinee performance Sunday, July 10, 2016 at 2:30 pm. Tickets range from $22.50 -$25.00. The production is directed by Mars Hill University Theatre Arts faculty member Jessica West. She is a veteran of numerous SART productions including The Light in the Piazza. The ensemble cast includes, newcomer Brian Mercer and SART Artistic Director Joel P. Rogers performing the multiple roles.
SART will continue their artistic calendar with a one-week special engagement of the Belle of Amherst, a one woman show about the life of poet Emily Dickenson. Originally directed for SART by C. Robert Jones, it is performed by SART alum Susan King. Performances begin Wednesday, July 13, 2016 at 7:30 pm and end on Sunday, July 17, 2016 with a 2:30 pm matinee. Tickets are $22.50-$25.00.
Subscriptions for the two plays can still be purchased for $40 each.
The Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre has a 42-year tradition of bringing significant professional theatre to the region, including works reflecting the history of the Southern Appalachians and more than 60 world premieres. Though a professional company, SART serves as a learning platform for students interested in theater on the campus of Mars Hill University.
For more information and to purchase tickets contact the SART box office at 828-689-1239, boxoffice@mhu.edu, www.sartplays.org .
