Conceived and directed by Scott T. Cummings
February 20-23 at 7:30PM
February 24 at 2:00PM
On Sunday, March 13, 2005, a woman named Ashley Smith held a press conference in Atlanta to explain what happened when a wanted criminal took her hostage in her own apartment late at night and how it was that he gave himself up to authorities the next morning. Her incredible story is the springboard for an original piece of collage theater that combines images, actions, and vignettes in order to explore such themes as telling one's own story, crime as entertainment, privacy versus celebrity, the omnivorous appetite of the mass media, and finding one's purpose in life. More theatrical fantasy than documentary realism, Ashley's Purpose will gather writing from a variety of sources, including Boston College students, to create an original dramatic composition that raises questions about the ethics of broadcast journalism, the presence of God in everyday life, the possibility of starting your life over, and what it takes to be a mother. A major experiment for the Theatre Department in creating new work from the ground up, the production will feature a multi-media design and an ensemble cast that will play a significant role in determining the ultimate content and final shape of the piece.
Scott T. Cummings