The Shape of Things

Last Thursday, Champlain College's production of The Shape of Things by Neil Labute opened at 8pm at the Flynnspace in Burlington. Labute's play draws the audience in seductively with a slow-building plot that slams home in the end, in a way no one would have expected. Local performer Kim Jordan plays the sultry Evelyn, the artist that holds a young man's world in the palm of her hand. Adam, played by Saint Michael's College grad Jayden Choquette, transforms his world and gives up everything for one woman. Ben Cavallari (a Champlain College professor) and Emily Benway (another SMC grad) bring Phillip and Jenny to life as Adam's friends, onlookers, and instigators as only Labute's characters are meant to be.

Directed by Joanne Farrell, this production includes much contribution from students. The lighting and sound design, sound board operator, and stage crew are all made up of Champlain College students. I stage managed the play and run the light board as well as call the show during performances. It has been a brand-new experience for me to work with Champlain, where there is no theater program, and Joanne drives productions into existence through sheer force of will and out of love for the performing arts, along with the help of students who, like Megan Lambros (my ASM) and other dedicated crew members, love the arts as well. 



The Shape of Things runs this week Wednesday-Saturday at the Flynnspace in downtown Burlington. The house and box office open at 7:30 for an 8pm performance; the play runs for about 2 hours, including a 10-minute intermission. Tickets are on sale at the Flynn Box Office.  I hope to see you there!