Stage Write

Dystopian novels have become common commodities as of late, but “The Giver” was around long before Katniss and Tris made an appearance. “The Giver” tells the story of a perfect world, where no one needs to make decisions because you know exactly what you are supposed to do every day. The Indiana Repertory Theatre, which first produced the play in 2009 , has brought it back this month. Although the story remains the same, this is not simply a repeat performance. There’s a new set, new actors in each role, and a new generation of students being introduced to the story. Courtney Sale’s direction gives the piece an appropriately eerie feel. What seems innocent and friendly at first takes on a sinister atmosphere as we learn more about the rules of their world. Each chime heightens the tension as Jonas begins to question the world around him. David Alan Anderson’s appearance as The Giver brings a sense of gravity to the show from the moment he steps on stage. As Jonas lear...

  The Indiana Repertory Theatre has announced its season for 2014/2015. The mix of shows include a Shakespearean comedy to celebrate the Bard's 450 th birthday, an award-winning Broadway play, and a few hidden gems from the regional theatre circuit.  To buy tickets or find out more information visit their site here . The season includes: Two Gentlemen of Verona – September 16 - October 19 The grass is always greener, especially in Milan. Best friends Valentine and Proteus are in love with the same woman: will it destroy their friendship or teach them a lesson? Join us for an adventure in laughter and frivolity as we meet a circus of outlaws, a cross-dressing heroine, a dog-loving clown and two friends who discover that love isn’t an easy game to play in Shakespeare's comedy. Red – October 14 - November 9 It’s 1958 and abstract expressionist painter Mark Rothko had just landed the biggest commission in the history of modern art. With the help of his assi...

"The Giver" is one of the first dystopian books I ever read. I was in junior high at the time and I remember being completely awed by this strange society, where everything seemed perfect at first, but the dark secrets of the community were quickly revealed. The book fascinated me and challenged my thinking, which is why I was filled with both excitement and apprehension when I found out "The Giver" was part of the Indiana Repertory Theatre's season this year. Anytime a book resonates with you it can be difficult to see that story brought to life on stage or film. There's always the fear that it won't be recreated quite like you imagined it and it will somehow mar the integrity of the story. The IRT's version of "The Giver" did nothing but enhance my original feelings. It's an amazing production, condensed to an 80 minute show with no intermission. The set, costumes and acting all played their unique parts in capturing the menace of th...