ISU Theatre's first production of its 2022-23 season, "Polaroid Stories," is a lyrical whirlwind of classical mythology and contemporary storytelling.
Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 6-8 in Fisher Theater. An Oct. 9 matinee begins at 2 p.m. General admission tickets are $20 for adults and free for Iowa State students and youth.
Inspired by Roman poet Ovid's "Metamorphoses" and informed by interviews with young prostitutes and street kids, "Polaroid Stories" conveys psychic disturbance, confusion and longing. The play, written by playwright Naomi lizuka, is a mix of poetry and profanity as young people who are pushed to society's fringe weave a dangerous tale of wild stories, clever lies and universal truths. The play contains adult language and content.
Faculty director Tiffany Johnson, assistant professor of practice in theatre, leads the production. Students are helping lead the design of lighting, costumes, sound and props. Sophomore Ashton Hale, who previously performed in ISU Theatre's "BABA" and "Street Scene," is taking on a new leadership challenge as a first-time associate director.
"It's been incredible to see the effort and commitment brought to the rehearsal space by every single person every night," Hale said. "I was given the privilege to block and work on an entire scene by myself using the knowledge and advice I've gained from the director. It was a wonderful opportunity to see my vision for what I could offer to the show come to life."
Johnson said seeing the cast and crew flourish within a supportive community has been her biggest delight of the production so far.
"I have enjoyed watching this cast and crew of artists not only grow with this piece but also grow from this piece," she said. "Creating community with casts has been something that has become very important to me as a director."
