Trinity Western University’s SAMC Theatre kicks off a new season with big laughs and colourful costumes in SMASH, a high-style British comedy fittingly set on a college campus.
Buckle up for a witty face off between socialism and capitalism, mixed with some battle-of-the-sexes fun.
Running Oct. 25 to Nov. 5, romance and politics collide when the main character, a charming though slightly misguided socialist, abandons his bride for a grand scheme to overthrow the British government.
When he sneaks into a ladies’ college hoping to convert socially influential allies, his clumsy antics throw the campus into a tizzy. Before long, he’s dodging a hawk-eyed headmistress, saucy dames on rollerskates and a starry-eyed rebel hopelessly in love with him.
“Whether you’re an enthusiast of politics and history, or you just love a good laugh, this play is a crowd-pleaser,” said director Lloyd Arnett.
“Like the best of satires, it’s full of ridiculous characters who take themselves quite seriously.”
Jeffrey Hatcher’s script, critically acclaimed for its smart writing and social commentary, is adapted from The Unsocial Socialist by theatre legend George Bernard Shaw.
The play stars Corben Dunn, James Faley, Amanda Haggett, Paul Kobilke, Lucas Morehouse, Madeleine Osborne, Steven Simpson, Rachel Van Vliet, Mikayla Wust and Joelle Wyminga.
Costumes are designed by Kaitlin Williams, the set by Heipo Leung and lighting by Sophie Tang.
Arnett and the cast will host a special event for high school students after the Nov. 2 performance. The night includes pizza, admission and a post-show talkback for $10. For information, email theatre@twu.ca.
SMASH runs at TWU’s School of the Arts, Media + Culture (SAMC), Tuesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. with Saturday matinees at 2 p.m. Book tickets at www.twu.ca/theatre or call 604-513-2188.