Limelight Theatre is presenting “Oleanna” — written by David Mamet and directed by David Buchman — now through Jan. 29 as part of its 31st season. “Oleanna” explores issues of miscommunication, sexual harassment, the hierarchical structure of academia and, more broadly, the battle of the sexes.
When a college student drops by her professor’s office to ask for academic assistance, their meeting progresses into an intense philosophical discussion. Later, her perception of that meeting morphs into an allegation of sexual harassment. His attempts to persuade her to drop her accusations escalate the matter to a dangerous level.
“Buckle up for a deep dive into the backgrounds, struggles and aspirations of the two characters in this drama that goes far beyond a ‘he said, she said’ approach to the complex issues the script tackles,” said Sherrie Provence, executive director of Limelight Theatre.
To help the community dive even deeper, Limelight Theatre will host post show moderated discussions following the Sunday matinee performances on Jan. 22 and 29 (starting at the finish of the show, roughly 3:30 p.m. and lasting approximately 45 minutes.)
“We are excited to welcome both audience members and the general public to join in the conversation,” Provence said.
Actor Jan Peter Buksar, most recently seen in the Limelight production of “Tru,” will moderate the panel which will include Provence, Buchman and the two leads of the show, veteran local actors Cameron Hodges and Mary Schubert.
Hodges plays John, a pompous, cavalier and contrarian college professor, who is soon eligible for tenure, a measure of security and validation he has been searching for all of his life. Schubert takes on the role of Carol, a seemingly meek, insecure college student, who is struggling academically as well as under the weight of what is expected of her by her family, peers and society.
Tickets are $28 with discount available for seniors, students and military. The price is discounted to $18 for Tuesday, Jan. 24. Tickets are available through Limelight Theatre’s website and box office: www.limelight-theatre.org, or call 904-825-1164.
Warning: “Oleanna” features language and themes that are not suitable for children.
