Don’t “Doubt” The Little Theatre’s newest production

By Jordan Norkus

Asst. Arts & Entertainment Editor

Sacred Heart University’s Theatre Arts Program is bringing John Patrick Shanley’s award winning parable, “Doubt,” to the Little Theatre stage.

Taking place in 1964, “Doubt” revolves around a nun’s unfounded suspicions against a priest’s relationship with a child.

“The show is about those who live with doubt and uncertainty,” said junior Patrick Robinson, who plays Father Flynn in the production. “It’s about brave women who fight oppressors and chase the truth.”

“Doubt” is also well known for its film adaptation, starring Meryl Streep, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Amy Adams and Viola Davis.

“The play is similar to the film because John Patrick Shanley, who wrote the play, also adapted it for the screen and directed it,” said Robinson. “He kept a lot of the values and dialogue in the transition into the film.”

Members of the production shared what they like about the play.

“This show really gets you thinking about the situations in the plot,” said junior Stachakay Silvera, who plays Mrs. Muller in the production. “I like this about the show because it keeps you on your toes for what happens next.”

Being the first production in the Theatre Arts Program’s lineup for the school year, “Doubt” cast and crew members did not have much time to put the show together.

“The process has been exhausting,” said Robinson. “There are only two and a half weeks of rehearsal before the show goes up so it has been nonstop since casting.”

However, the cast and crew are excited about the process of putting the show together and have learned much from the experience.

“The rehearsal process is a lot of fun,” said junior Christopher Faccenda, who is the assistant director of the production. “Our director, Leo Carusone, really creates a great learning environment as soon as you walk into the Little Theatre.”

Faccenda also shared what he enjoys most about coming to the rehearsals.

“My favorite part is watching the actors perform. They make it so real and powerful,” said Faccenda. “Everyday they come in fully prepared and ready to go. They’ve put a lot of work into this show and you can definitely see that.”

With the show right around the corner, the cast and crew members cannot wait for “Doubt” to be put up in front of an audience.

“I can’t wait for the show to begin,” said Silvera. “We have such a talented cast and crew and the audience will love it.”

Those involved with the production want the audience to walk away asking a lot of questions.

“The play lives and breathes right in front of you and it serves as an unforgettable experience,” said Robinson. “The audience should expect to have doubts.”

“Doubt” opens on Thursday, Sept. 22 at 8 p.m. in the Little Theatre. Additional performances will be held Friday, Sept. 23 through Sunday, Sept. 25 and Thursday, Sept. 29 through Sunday, Oct. 02. Friday and Saturday night showings begin at 8 p.m. and Sunday matinees are at 3 p.m.

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