The Adams State University Theatre Department brings to the stage, 30 Neo-Futurist Plays from Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind (30 plays in 60 minutes), written by Greg Allen and directed by David Gerke, assistant professor of theatre. The production opens at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 16 and continues nightly through Friday, March 18, on the Xperimental Stage.
“Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind is the name of the show made up of plays” writes Allen, “They are plays, not sketches or skits or scenes or any of the dreaded s-words.” Gerke appreciates the sentiment, as he has guided the student ensemble in the selection and staging of 30 plays that each have personal significance for their performers.
Each play lasts about 2 minutes and every evening the order changes. The audience will select the random order from a menu of the plays listed from 1-30 with associated titles. The actors won’t know the number of their play, but will call out “NUMBER!” They will then yank the corresponding number from a clothesline in order to reveal the title of the next play. Once the performers are in their starting position, A “GO!” is called by the stage manager. Every play ends with the shout of “CURTAIN!” This process repeats itself until the timer runs out or the ensemble beats the buzzer.
The 30 plays run the gamut: comedy, social commentary, absurdism, relationships, politics, and self-revelation. “If you don’t enjoy what you are watching, wait two minutes and another completely different play will begin,” Gerke said, adding that “If the ensemble fails to beat the buzzer then pizza must be bought, so there’s always a chance for a free slice.”
Tickets are $9 for the general public, $8 for seniors and students, and free to Associated Students and Faculty with current Adams State identification. The production includes adult language and some sexual content, and is recommended for ages 12 and older. All audience members are required to wear masks while inside of the Theatre Building. The box office number is 719-587-8499, and is open from 2:30-5:30 M-F.
