Notice Board

October 4 - 8 | 7:30 p.m. | David Spinks Theatre

Gus and Ben are in a decrepit basement waiting for orders regarding an assignment. They’re there as a team, but what happens when the channels of communication start to break down? The Dumb Waiter, by Harold Pinter, immerses audiences into an intimate yet absurd world, playing October 4 - 8 at 7:30 p.m. nightly in the David Spinks Theatre. 

Directed by Gabrielle Houle, the first production of the Department of Drama's Mainstage season is a complex offering, contrasting comedy vs violence, and light vs dark, within a claustrophobic setting that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats.

"It's a truly immersive experience," says Houle. "The audience and performers will be in very tight proximity to one another. We've created an intimiate setting where there is a sense of discomfort not only between the characters, but will be felt by the audience, too."

"The concept of this play is incredible," says Department of Drama faculty, and designer, Dave Smith. "There are so many layers within the play. The text is complex, yet subtle."

The production was suggested by Smith as an excellent offering for the first Mainstage of the season as it provides  opportunity for two actors to develop their characters, one-on-one.

"We needed a play that had a smaller scope and for a smaller cast, and this is a perfect play for not only audiences to experience, but for our student actors and designers to work on as well," says Smith.

Featuring a three-piece jazz ensemble, Houle also notes this production is a truly collaborative endeavor.

"When I read the play in preparation to direct, I could sense the rhythm of the dialogue — a musicality within the text. It's been marvelous to collaborate with Dr. Josh Davies and his students to add live music to this production," says Houle.

Tickets are very limited and available at the new Box Office window (located on Level 6 in the Atrium) Monday - Friday, 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., or online at ulethbridge.ca/tickets. Tickets are $18 for an adult, $13 for seniors and alumni and $12 for students. ULethbridge students receive one free ticket with proof of student ID.