FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Feb. 16, 2005 - Sylvia Bierschenk

SFA theatre students preparing to present 'Harvey'

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - Finishing touches are being applied to the sets, costumes, and even the characters as the Stephen F. Austin State University Department of Theatre prepares for the opening night of "Harvey" Tuesday, Feb. 22. The comedy by Mary Chase will be presented at 7:30 p.m. each evening through Saturday, Feb. 26, in W. M. Turner Auditorium.

The Pulitzer Prize-winning play gets its title from Elwood P. Dowd's imaginary friend, a six-and-a-half-foot rabbit named Harvey. Humorous events follow when Elwood's sister, Veta Louise, tries to have her brother committed to a sanitarium.

According to director Alan Nielsen, SFA professor of theatre, the play conveys the idea that it's okay to be different, to not be like everyone else. "And we're bringing this concept out in every aspect of the play," Nielsen added.

For instance, when audience members enter the auditorium, they will immediately see the stark white on black set designed by Tomy Matthys, SFA associate professor of theatre.

"Most of the characters in the play see the world only in black and white," explained Matthys. "There are no grey areas in their concepts of right and wrong, so the set serves as an extension of their personalities."

Barbara Blackwell, SFA costume shop supervisor, said the black and white costumes serve the same purpose. And like the sets and the songs used in the play, they are not restricted to any one time period because Chase's message is universally applicable.

During the final rehearsals, the actors are perfecting the depictions of their characters.

"We're paying close attention to gestures, facial expressions and the timing that is crucial in a farcical comedy," Nielsen said.

"Harvey" is a joint presentation of the SFA College of Fine Arts, the University Series and the Department of Theatre.

Prior to the opening night performance on Tuesday, Feb. 22, the SFA College of Fine Arts will host a 6:45 p.m. reception in Griffith Gallery to honor the show's corporate sponsor, Tipton Ford. At 7 p.m., Nielsen will give an informative talk on the production. The public is invited.

Tickets for "Harvey" are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and $5 for students.

For tickets or more information, please visit www.finearts.sfasu.edu or call (936) 468-6407 or 888-240-ARTS.