Calling the Sycamores eccentric wouldn’t begin to explain them! An ice salesman who never left, a wrestling Russian ballet teacher and fireworks in the basement are just a few of the novelties thrust upon you in The West Virginia University School of Theatre and Dance’s production of “You Can’t Take It with You” April 5-14 at WVU’s Creative Arts Center.
Written by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart in the late 1930’s, “You Can’t Take It with You” tells the story of Alice Sycamore juggling her affection for Tony Kirby, the son of a wealthy business owner, and the adoration of her off-the-wall family. More importantly, Kaufman and Hart tell a story about a family and their love for life and each other. The students in The School of Theatre & Dance have pieced together a joyous, yet uncouth experience any audience would enjoy.
“The theatre goes back 2,500 years, but there is no play that seems fresher, or has more to say, than this classic American comedy,” said director Dr. Jay Malarcher, associate professor of theatre history. “‘You Can’t Take It with You’ has been entertaining audiences for almost a hundred years because it speaks to a truth that our society cherishes: the best life to live is our own, if we do it on our terms, with passion and love. Americans have always valued freedom and liberty. What would happen if a family did whatever the hell it wanted to? Come see ‘You Can’t Take It with You’ and find out!”
"‘You Can't Take It with You’ highlights the beauty of family, making it a wonderful show for all ages,” said Caroline Dawson, senior BFA acting student. “Come see this production come to life and prepare to be pleasantly surprised with all of the exciting chaos that the playwright builds for the audience. This production has been delightful to work on alongside so many artists and creators. You will definitely not want to miss this heartwarming story."
Scenic design is by Lindsay Maiorano; costume design by MFA theatre design and technology student Jacob Currence; lighting design by MFA lighting design and technology student Thomas Gillette; and sound design by Alan McEwen, clinical associate professor of lighting and sound design.
“You Can’t Take It with You” will take the stage in the Glady G. Davis Theatre at the Creative Arts Center. Tickets for “You Can't Take It with You” are available on campus at the Mountainlair and Creative Arts Center Box Office locations (Mon. - Fri. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.), by calling 304.293.SHOW (7469) and online at ticketmaster.com. Special ticket pricing is available for children ages 18 and under, WVU students with valid ID and senior citizens age 65 and up. To inquire about group rates, email cac@mail.wvu.edu.