AG
Ansley Gayton
  • Drama
  • Class of 2019
  • Calhoun, GA

Ansley Gayton Stars in "An Enemy of the People" at JSU

2017 Oct 31

Ansley Gayton starred in JSU Drama's first production of the season, "An Enemy of the People," on Oct. 27-30. Gayton was cast as Townsperson in the adaptation of the Arthur Miller play.

"An Enemy of the People" was written in 1882 by Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen in response to the public backlash to his play, "Ghosts," which scandalized Victorian society due to its veiled references to STDs. In the 1950s, it was adapted by famed playwright Arthur Miller.

As a small Norwegian town prepares to open its healing springs, Dr. Thomas Stockmann discovers deadly pollution in the waters. But as the local government and citizens question what his findings will mean for the town, the doctor realizes that no good deed goes unpunished. How can he convince them that scientific fact can save the life of the town? This timely drama explores what happens when the truth collides with the will of the majority.

Theatre guests were welcomed to a newly updated lobby at JSU's Ernest Stone Performing Arts Center, which now features beautiful stone work, a flat screen television, and expanded restroom facilities. A state-of-the-art theatrical lighting system has also been installed in the theatre.

In November, JSU Drama hosts its annual Student Showcase with two evenings of one-act plays directed by students, as well as displays of student design work. Please come support and celebrate JSU's emerging theatre artists on Nov. 29-30.

The classic musical "Guys and Dolls" will light up the Stone Center stage in February. The "musical fable of Broadway" is inspired by the stories of Damon Runyon - with music and lyrics by Frank Loesser and book by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows. It features the familiar hits "A Bushel and A Peck," "I've Never Been in Love Before," "Sit Down, You're Rocking the Boat" and "Luck Be a Lady." It will take the stage Feb. 23-March 4.

On March 29-30, JSU Drama presents a workshop production of the winner of the annual Southern Playwrights Competition, "Lillian Paula Carson" by John Barrow.

The season concludes with Lois Lowry's Newberry Award winning young adult novel "The Giver," in an adaptation by Eric Coble. Jonas lives in a utopian society in which each person is assigned a role in the community. When he is chosen for special training from The Giver - to receive and keep the memories of the community - Jonas will discover what it means to grow up, grow wise and take control of your own destiny. Mark your calendar for April 13-15.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please call 256-782-5648 or visit www.jsu.edu/drama.