By Emilie E. Tole
Western Herald
Alan Ball’s “Five Women Wearing the Same Dress” opens tonight at the University Theatre.
The show is a comedic romp “about five bridesmaids who all don’t want to be in the wedding for very different reasons,” cast member Natalie Hurdle said.
In an attempt to escape the hustle and bustle of an overstated reception, the girls seek refuge in the bedroom of the bride’s sister.
It is here that they discover that they have more in common with each other than any of them do with the bride.
Alan Ball was born in Atlanta, Georgia. He received his bachelor’s degree in the theater arts from Florida State University. Since college he has become a successful writer, director, actor and producer of television, film and theatre. He, perhaps, is most well known for his original screenplay for the Oscar winning film, “American Beauty.” He is also responsible for the creation of such television hits as “Six Feet Under” and “True Blood.”
“It has been interesting, as a man, working on a play about women and going through all of their problems and concerns,” Director Mark Liermann said.
Though the play is about, and consists almost entirely of, women characters, its writer included humor enough for it the appeal to both sexes.
“There’s lots of physical comedy and it will appeal to everyone,” Hurdle said.
“It’s funny, it’s got some surprises, it’s got some emotional surprises most would enjoy,” Lierman said. “It’s a good date play. It’s romantic with lots of drinking, partying and bitching.”
Both Hurdle and Lierman had very positive things to say about the rehearsal process and experience of putting on this particular show.
Hurdle said that working closely with the small cast has been her favorite part of being in the show.
“It is a really rare experience to get this kind of chemistry this easily. Everyone fell into a beautiful camaraderie,” she said.
Hurdle brings to life the character of Mindy who, according to Hurdle, is, “a clumsy, blunt, liberated lesbian. She eats constantly and has no problem saying exactly what she thinks.
She is comfortable being who she is even if that makes others uncomfortable.”
The character of Mindy is supported by four other, equally as vibrant and diverse characters of very dissimilar personalities.
Lierman has been impressed with the play’s progress and is pleased with the way the cast has been working so well together.
“Five Women Wearing the Same Dress” opens Oct. 29 at 8 p.m. Other performances are Oct. 30 and 31 at 8 p.m., Nov. 5-7 at 8 p.m., and Nov. 8 at 2 p.m.
Also, in the spirit of the show, discounts will be offered to patrons who wear their best, or worst, bridesmaid’s ensemble.
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