Seascape rolls into WU’s Neese Gray Theatre

Steven Dennis

This coming week, “Seascape” will be gracing the stage thanks to the Washburn theatre department.

As director, Linda Smith brings Edward Albee’s script to life, crafting a scene of an aging married couple as they explore the cynicism, love, life, culture and curiosity of the world and themselves and in doing so, begin to see the world in a new light.

“When I read it when I was twenty it meant something to me,” Smith said. “When I read it when I was in my forties, it meant something different. You discover things about Albee in every stage. When you reach him once, you have an idea and think that you know what he means and you read him again and different things become apparent.”

Smith has wanted to direct this show ever since her own college days.

“She is finally getting to do that with us,” said Grace Foiles, a Washburn theatre major. “It’s really special getting to be a part of that process.”

Pamela Rodriguez-Montero, a recent KU masters of scenography graduate created the set, lights and the detailed, intricate costumes.

“This is probably one of the most enjoyable plays that I have done,” says Dalton Hane, senior political science major portraying the role of Leslie. “The costumes were probably my favorite part and that’s what got my interested in the first place.”

In addition to being a contemplative character piece with intriguing set and design, “Seascape” also draws in the thoughts and imaginations from people of all ages by presenting meaningful themes and perspectives.

“The themes are very relatable for everyone,” said Andrew Fletcher, senior Creative Writing major playing Charlie in the production. “It’s so very human, deeply poignant and sad… [“Seascape”] really takes a microscope to what it is to be a human being in this crazy, crazy world.”

This production, focusing on character as much as it does, utilizes the visions of the actors to inform the overall presentation, creating a unique atmosphere to the play.

“I believe eventually they will know their characters better that I ever will, because you don’t really know someone until you walk a mile in their shoes,” Smith said.

The cast is hopeful to bring this production to the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival so that they may participate, possibly continuing to regionals.

“Seascape” showings are 7:30 p.m. Sept. 7, 8, and 9, with another show on the following day at 2 p.m. Watching the show is free of charge with a Washburn student ID or $8 for general admission.