Wright State Theatre presents controversial drama ‘The Children’s Hour’

Wright State Theatre’s production of Lillian Hellman’s “The Children’s Hour” runs from Feb. 2 to Feb. 12 in the Festival Playhouse. (Photos by Erin Pence)

Wright State University Theatre continues its 42nd season with “The Children’s Hour” Feb. 2 to Feb. 12 in the Festival Playhouse in the Creative Arts Center.

Performances are Feb. 2, 8 and 9 at 7 p.m.; Feb. 3, 4, 10 and 11 at 8 p.m.; and Feb. 5, 11 and 12 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $22 for adults and $20 for students and senior citizens. For tickets and theatre information call the Box Office at 937-775-2500 or purchase single tickets online.

“The Children’s Hour” is recommended for adult audiences.

Set in an all-girls boarding school, the drama centers on a student who tells a malicious lie about her female teachers and its consequences. It explores the psychology of lying and pushes the boundaries of relationships and the notion of truth.

“The Children’s Hour,” by Lillian Hellman, appeared on Broadway from 1934 to 1936. It was made into a landmark movie starring Audrey Hepburn and Shirley MacLaine in 1961.

The Wright State production of “The Children’s Hour” is directed by Marya Spring-Cordes (“The Music Man,” “Pride and Prejudice”). The set design is by David J. Castellano (“Restoration!,” “A Streetcar Named Desire”), lighting design by Jennifer Watson, costume design by Naomi Reisner (“Blood Wedding”), properties by Michael Tipton and sound design by Rachel Haas.

The production features Katie Post (Karen Wright), Haley Knuth (Martha Dobie), Dana Bixler (Mary Tilford), Zac Pruett (Dr. Joseph Cardin), Megan Valle (Mrs. Amelia Tilford), Caitlin Shiner (Mrs. Lily Mortar), Brynnan McNeill (Rosalie Wells), Madeline Musico (Agatha), Heather Cooperman (Peggy Rogers), Rachel Woeste (Evelyn Munn), Taylor Patrick (Lois Fisher), Drew Longmore (Helen Burton), Kayli Modell (Catherine), Celia Arthur (Janet), Donnasia Allen (Leslie) and Grant Measures (Grocery Boy). Understudies include Isabella Andrews, Megan Arseneau, Casey Borghesi, Kaitlyn Campbell, Lauren Kampman, Sophie Kirk, Hailey Noll, Katie Sinicki and Philip Stock.