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Love, Murder and… Recycling? “Big Love” Theatre Production Presented April 25 to 29 at Valborg Theater

Senior Hannah Orders, a technical theatre major from Charlotte, sorts plastic bottles that will be incorporated into the set of “Big Love,” presented by Appalachian State University’s Department of Theatre and Dance April 25-29. The set’s other sustainable elements include the use of recycled newspapers, cardboard and fabric, and minimal use of paint. (Photo by Greg Williams)

April 27, 2012. The compelling postmodern tragicomedy “Big Love” – which features a sustainable set made of recycled materials – will be presented by Appalachian State University’s Department of Theatre and Dance April 25-29 in Valborg Theatre on campus. 

Curtain times are 7:30 p.m. for all showings except the Sunday matinee, which begins at 2 p.m. Ticket prices start at $6 for Appalachian students. For more information, visit www.theatre.appstate.edu or call the box office at 828-262-3063. 

The production addresses the issues of marriage, gender equality and domestic violence. Based on the “Danaid Trilogy” by Aeschylus, “Big Love” tells the story of three brides who are betrothed to undesirable suitors and flee to Italy seeking asylum. As the men pursue them, the brides resolve to find a way out of their predicament creates exciting twists and turns.

The brides are played by Carmen Lawrence, Laura Levine and Laura Straughbaugh. The suitors are played by played by Sloan Hickson, Chris Hinton and Charles Wilkes.

Every element of the production uses recycled materials, according to director Derek Davidson. The Valborg lobby will also display details of the director’s mission to create sustainable theatre.

The production also incorporates six extras as chorus members in a manner reminiscent of Asian theatrical traditions. 

Tickets are available at the Valborg Theatre box office Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 2-5 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday 12:30-5 p.m., online at www.theatre.appstate.edu, or by phone at 828-262-3063.

The Valborg Theatre is located on the north side of Chapell Wilson Hall on Howard Street. The door faces the back of the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts on King Street. Parking on campus is available after 5 p.m. in faculty lots, the College Street deck parking near Belk Library and Information Commons, and the Rivers Street parking deck.