The effects of the Vietnam War on Americans as individuals and a society are examined in the Ithaca College Theatre production of the musical “Dogfight.” Performances will take place in Clark Theatre on March 29 and 31 and April 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 at 8 p.m. as well as on April 3 and 9 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are currently on sale and can be purchased at the Ithaca College box office in Dillingham Center or online at ithaca.ticketforce.com. The box office is open Monday–Thursday, noon–5 p.m.; and Friday, noon–4 p.m. Tickets can also be purchased over the phone at (607) 274-3224. Tickets range from $8 to $16. Audiences are advised that this production contains mature language, sexual content, violence and images of war.
Based on the 1991 film, “Dogfight” is about a group of Marines who organize a “dogfight” — a callous bet to determine who can bring the ugliest girl to the party — on the night before they are to be shipped overseas from San Francisco. Eddie Birdlace meets his girl, a waitress named Rose, who winds up challenging his assumptions about skin-deep beauty.
Composed by the fresh new writing team of Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, the musical features a rich score full of stylistic references to the 1960s. The Associated Press says the show is “studded with impressive songs, an unexpected love affair, and a genuine and charming soul.”
“The events of ‘Dogfight’ occur on the eve of the assassination of JFK, a watershed moment for a generation of Americans,” says director Wendy Dann. “Birdlace represents a major change in America: the hope and pride — one might even say arrogance — coming out of World War II that changed overnight. Rose teaches him empathy; what it means to look at another person and see another person. It’s a really important journey for Birdlace, and for an American audience.”
The musical director of “Dogfight” is Joel Gelpe and choreographer is Roy Lightner. The production team includes scenic designer Rebecca Dwight ’16, lighting designer Eric Mitchell ’17, costume designer Emma Duncan ’16 and sound designer Josh Samuels ’16. The technical director is Emily White Freeman ’16 and the stage manager is Kelsey Dunne ’16.
A nationally recognized professional theatre-training program, the Department of Theatre Arts attracts students from across the globe. Throughout the school year, undergraduate students present all aspects of theatre in a professional model. Visit www.ithaca.edu/hs/depts/theatre/mainstage/ for further information.
Follow Ithaca College Theatre on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ICTheatreArts and Twitter at @ICTheatreArts.
Dillingham Center accommodates all patrons. Individuals with special needs are asked to contact (607) 274-3224 to request accommodations as soon as possible.