Last night, the BJU Theater Department’s production of Frederick Knott’s play Wait Until Dark opened in Performance Hall. Taylor Stephens, the theater senior leading the production said, “I believe the audiences will get sucked in by the characters and the struggle for power in this dark thriller.”
David Schwingle, Stephens’s advisor and head of the theater program, said, “The play is a mystery/thriller. It’s a fun story that takes you on a ride!”
Photo by The Collegian, Katelyn McKenney.
Nathan Barnes, a film & digital storytelling student who plays con artist Mike, recognizes the technical value of the production. Barnes said, “The set, lighting, costumes, props—The whole cast starts to come alive as the space pieces together and you find yourself at 27B Grogan Street: there is a locked safe, a hidden key, a barred window with a blind over it, a locked closet: the story comes to life!”
Erika McGonigal, who plays lead character Suzy Hendrix said, “Taylor takes such good care of her cast and crew. She established an atmosphere where actors can be creative and have fun while staying safe on stage in such a tech/combat/prop heavy show.”
Schwingle said of Stephens, “Taylor has a lot of work and responsibility on her plate—more than the average student. I hope the younger students are paying attention and taking notes. Who knows—one day they may be able to direct their own play!”
A play demands weeks of rehearsal and preparation from the cast and crew. Stephens said, “I have had some struggles, but my assistant director (Jinnea Bullock) and my stage manager (Abby-Lynn Gillespie) have worked tirelessly to find solutions for the problems that arise.”
Photo by The Collegian, Katelyn McKenney.
Why choose a dark thriller? Schwingle believes there’s something under the surface to edify its viewers. Stephens said, “Not only is there a clear emphasis on enduring courage against evil, but it is a powerful reminder of our duty to stand up for those we love in the face of oppression.”
Schwingle said, “The production dovetails with our departmental theme: “Joyful courage.” Against all odds, a young woman thwarts evil and dark deception.” There’s something fitting for our culture in this play from the sixties. “It takes a lot of courage to fight—especially when you’re “in the dark” and don’t know what’s really going on.”
If this sounds intriguing, you may still have time to catch the production. The play runs October 25, 26, 31, and November 1 and 2. Tickets are $8 and are available through the Programs and Productions box office (in person or online) in Rodeheaver Lobby.
