Jordan Hannebaum, Lauren Long, Katie Mae Miller,
Nicholas Harlan, and Erik Thurston, rehearse for Central Park West.
Friends since freshman year, theatre majors Jake Webb and David Boncyk love comedy and chose one-act plays by Woody Allen and Steve Martin to direct this spring. Comedy Giants, opens at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, in the Xperimental Theatre and runs nightly through March 14. "Woody Allen and Steve Martin are comedy giants, and we are smart ass-ery," both said.
Boncyk knew he wanted to direct a comedy and Central Park West by Woody Allen was a good fit. "Two couples discover they are being cheated on, but it is a romantic comedy. The play is typical Woody Allen, very witty."
James Rodriguez, Michael Ricci, Shawnie Abbott, Kat Nuttle, Alex Adams, and Laura Owsley, star in the one-act WASP.
Webb appreciated the ironic humor of Steve Martin’s WASP. “The play is a satire on the White Anglo-Saxton Protestant family in the 50s.” He believes there are “fall out of your seat with laughter moments.” Directing his fellow actors, who are “friends” has been a great experience. “It really helps when the actors are excited about coming to rehearsal.”
Both directors say working with each other has been smooth and easy. “David was the best man at my wedding. Our friendship has made working together a very positive experience,” Webb said. If one needs more of the budget for props than the other, “we say, ‘take it.’ We support each other,” added Boncyk.
After graduation, Webb plans include becoming a lighting designer in the film industry. Boncyk will move to Chicago, after building experience in Denver, to follow his dream of improv and stand-up comedy.
“The shows are witty and fast-paced,” Webb said. Boncyk believes the audience will enjoy the opportunity to laugh at “genuinely great pieces of theatre.”
Individual tickets are $8 for general public, $7 for seniors and students, and free to Associated Students and Faculty with current Adams state identification. Due to mature content, the Theatre Program recommends the show for audience members 17 and over. To reserve tickets call 719-587-8499.
