Adams State University Theatre opens its 2015-2016 season with Standing on Ceremony: The Gay Marriage Plays. Tickets go on sale Monday, September 14 at the ASU Theatre Box Office.
Standing on Ceremony: The Gay Marriage Plays, directed by Dr. John H. Taylor, professor of theatre, consists of nine short plays that offers unique takes on the moments before, during and after "I do." It features an A-list lineup of playwrights whose works are witty, warm and occasionally wacky. These plays are vows to the blessings of equality, the universal challenges of relationships and the often hilarious power of love.
"When I chose to do this play, the Supreme Court was several months away from its ruling on marriage equality. Whatever the justices ruled, I knew it would make for a timely and relevant work of theatre. With the Court’s historic decision, our production is clearly a celebration of love, laughter, and equality," said Taylor.
The theatre production is part of Standing Strong: The ASU Equality Project that is sponsored by the ASU Theatre program and the ASU LGBTQ Faculty and Staff Coalition.
According to Taylor, "Over nine days, the project will celebrate efforts to create a more inclusive society by dismantling barriers to equality. Through a variety of events including theatre, music, comedy improv, public forums, a faculty lecture, and more, Standing Strong examines where we’ve been, where we are, and where we’re going as we work to create a more perfect and just union."
The opening night performance will be followed by the marriage of Dr. Beez Schell and Stephanie Cramblet along with several re-commitment ceremonies. An opening night reception will conclude the evening. To attend the ceremonies and reception, you must have a ticket to the opening night performance.
While Standing on Ceremony deals with an issue some may still find controversial, the nine short plays that make up the larger work emphasize the universal aspects of relationships and marriage to which all who have been and are in love can relate. "These plays have plenty of laughs. Regardless of one’s opinion on this issue, if we can laugh together and maybe shed a few tears together then we can also sit and talk together," said Taylor.
During opening night, the Adams State LGBTQ Faculty and Staff Coalition will accept donations for a new scholarship for students who demonstrate an active participation in social justice and inclusiveness at Adams State. Schell and Cramblet request that donations to the scholarship be made in lieu of marriage gifts.
For Standing Strong: The ASU Equality Project schedule of events visit ASU Theatre Department.
Performances of Standing on Ceremony: The Gay Marriage Plays run Sept. 25, 26, and Oct. 1, 2, and 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Tickets are $10 for general public, $8 for seniors and students, and free to Associated Students and Faculty with current Adams State identification. The box office number is 719-587-8499.
