Topic: College of Fine Arts

October 29, 2009

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(From left to right) "Noises Off" cast members Keith Lipke, Rachel Fanckboner and Erin Neufer pose in this promotional photo for the Ball State production.
Start with a ridiculous plot, add a few far-fetched situations and a bit of quick repartee and you have the makings of the comedic farce that is "Noises Off."

The play hits the Ball State University Theatre stage at 7:30 p.m. Nov 12. It will also be performed at 7:30 p.m. Nov 13-14 and Nov18-21. There is a matinee show at 2:30 p.m. Nov 15.

The show is based on a cast trying to pull off a sexual comedy called "Nothing On" and what happens to the characters off-stage proves just as comedic as what's happening to them while on stage.

The plot of "Noises Off" follows the cast of "Nothing On" from dress rehearsal, to a matinee one month later, to a final performance near the end of its 10-week run. Where the comedy and slapstick get introduced is in the discovery of how the messiness of these actors' lives off-stage affects their on-stage performances.

Since its stage debut in 1983, "Noises Off" has been hailed by critics and nominated for awards including a Tony Award. By the end of "Noises Off," the audience will leave knowing if the production of "Nothing On" is a hit or bust.

Tickets for the performance cost $12.50 for the general public, $11.50 for faculty and staff, $9.50 for senior citizens, and $6.50 for students. They are available from the University Theatre Box Office, open from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Contact the box office at 765-285-8749 or visit www.bsu.edu/theatre for more information.

Upcoming shows include:

•  "Steppin' Out With Gershwin on a Cole Winter's Night" – 7:30 p.m. Dec 10-12 and 2:30 p.m. Dec 13. Experience the works of George Gershwin and Cole Porter with an eclectic blend of dance featuring choreography from the talented faculty of Ball State Dance Theatre along with renowned great artists paying tribute to Gershwin and Porter.

• "Macbeth" – 7:30 p.m. Feb. 11-13, 17-20 and 2:30 p.m. Feb 14.  One of Shakespeare's most well-known plays is coming to Ball State stage. It is the story of one man's decision on how deep he will descend in order to fulfill his mysterious but inevitable prophecy.

By Samantha Irons