Last night, the theatre department kicked off their rendition of the play “Smash” in the Ulrey Performing Arts Center at 7 p.m.
“Smash” is the theater adaption of George Bernard Shaw’s book “The Unsocial Socialist” and focuses on a millionaire socialist named Sidney Trefusis who leaves his bride at the altar for fears that his love for her will hinder his plan to overthrow the British government. Trefusis goes undercover, disguising himself and infiltrating a women’s college in hopes of planting his socialist ideals in the girls’ minds.
Sophomore Kayli Kendall, a supporting actor in the play, said this is her favorite performance she has been in while at Harding.
Kendall said the title “Smash” refers to the setting of the show, which features a look at life in society in the early 1900s. In addition, she said the title is a reference to the climax of the show.
“Smash describes the revolutionary spirit,” Kendall said.
In the production, Kendall plays a college-aged girl named Gertrude who attends the Alton College for Ladies in England during the year of 1910.
Sophomore Jenna Light, who plays Henrietta Jansenius in the show, said that she adores the show and it is, “witty, smart, silly and quick.” She explained that the life portrayed on stage is very similar to today’s day and age.
Light said she also enjoyed the rehearsals because she has been able to work with a great cast and it has been a learning process.
“Often during rehearsals we were asked to do things vocally, physically and emotionally that weren’t necessarily easy or comfortable,” Light said.
However, the actors said rehearsals were never a burden, but rather a growing experience.
“It’s been interesting for me to find the parallels between the situations my character goes through, and situations that I’ve gone through,” Light said. “In a lot of ways, Hetty and I aren’t very different.”
“Smash” will be showing this Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m., and next weekend at the same times for their last performances. Tickets are available at the door and at www.hardingtickets.com.
