Michael Abbott of Great Bend is part of cast and crew presenting “The Nerd,” a hilarious and popular comedy by Larry Shue.
“The Nerd” is about Willum, an aspiring architect and former GI. Willum often tells his friends the story of a man named Rick Steadman who he has never met but who saved his life in Vietnam. Willum has often written to Rick and telling him that as long as he is alive, “you will have somebody on Earth who will do anything for you” - so imagine Willum’s delight when Rick shows up unexpectedly at his apartment.
But his delight soon turns to disdain when he realizes that Rick is a clumsy fool with no social grace, little intelligence and even less tact. Rick outstays his welcome with a hilarious vengeance that causes one uproarious incident after another, all leading up to a surprising twist of an ending.
Abbott, a senior Theatre major, plays Rick Steadman.
“The Nerd” is the directing debut of our newest faculty member, Dan Matisa, who joins ESU Theatre direct from the Arkansas Shakespeare Festival. Matisa has spent the last several years in New York City as a working actor. He brings a wealth of real world experience to the Emporia State University Theatre program.
Assisting Matisa with directing is Jim Bartruff. Scenery and costumes are being designed by Rick Rasmussen. Costume supervision is provided by Amanda Dura and technical direction is provided by Chris Lohkamp.
“The Nerd” runs at 7:30 p.m., July 8 through 11, in the Karl C. Bruder Theatre. For tickets or more information, call the box office at 620-341-6378.