This weekend a new Second Studio show will hit the Southern Utah University Blackbox. “A Monster Calls” will have its opening performance on March 21 at 7:30 p.m. in the Auditorium; tickets can be purchased online or at the box office for $5. “A Monster Calls” was written by Patrick Ness and is directed by Thompson Scribner.
“‘A Monster Calls’ is a story about a boy who has to grieve his mother before she actually dies,” said Scribner. “It’s a story about anger and punishment, and about youth and parenthood, but mainly it’s a story about truth. A story about how the truth can tear you apart or it can set you free.”
The rehearsal process has proved challenging but rewarding for the actors. Scribner strives for a collaborative process by creating images in the show that are produced through the physicality of the cast and by allowing open discussions.
”It’s been different from any other show experience I’ve been in,” said Carson Tanner, who is a member of the show’s ensemble.“Everything means something, just because of how our designers and how Thompson, our director, has done it. Prepare to get one of the songs in your head — it’s not a musical, but Ivy [Robbins] wrote music for it.”
The cast’s and crew’s vision for the show aims to entertain everyone, not just those involved with theatre. This student-run production will include musical compositions, detailed designs and a connecting story.
“I think that a show like ‘A Monster Calls’ is one that really speaks to everyone, especially after the losses and sicknesses we all faced during the Coronavirus pandemic,” said Scribner. “ It’s a show about remembering to love each other and love ourselves. I think that everyone, even if you’re not regularly involved in theatre, can benefit from that.”
The show will run March 21-23 at 7:30 p.m. with an additional performance on March 23 at 2:00 p.m. Following Thursday’s opening performance, there will be a gala held in the Auditorium lobby to celebrate those involved in the show.
Author: Shay Wilkey
Photos courtesy of Second Studio
Editor: Tessa Cheshire
arts@suunews.net
