ESU is Proud to Present: “The Goat, or Who is Sylvia?”

Hunter James Fogel, and Shannon Faegan on the set.
Photo Credit / Dana Reese
Hunter James Fogel, and Shannon Faegan on the set.
Photo Credit / Dana Reese

BY JAMIE REESE
SC Staff Writer

 

From March 5 through March 9, East Stroudsburg University’s Department of Theatre presented “The Goat, or Who is Sylvia?”

This play, written by Edward Albee, touches on controversial issues including homosexuality, incest, and bestiality.

On a deeper level, this production questions topics including societal intolerances and conceptions of love.

Despite the play working around these touchy concepts (most notably bestiality), the play succeeded due to the ingenious mixture of tragedy and humor.

“It was very emotional, thrilling – exhausting in a way,” said Devonna Marshall, a freshman at East Stroudsburg University. “I saw it three times.”

“It was a nice, modern take on some touchy issues,” said Shaquil Roberts, another student at ESU.

The actors, despite seeing things from a more practiced perspective, could not agree more.

“Hands down, this was the most challenging performance I have ever participated in,” said Hunter Fogel. “The emotional aspect was draining.”

According to Alex Misurella, “I would say it was significantly more difficult than other shows I’ve been in. The main reason being the emotional depth of the characters.”

“The second scene was emotionally draining,” said Shannon Faegan, “but a lot of fun.”

Overall, the production really did seem to focus on the more serious issues, made possible only due to the bits of comedy dispersed throughout.

If you are interested in seeing a mature, masterful performance of “The Goat, or Who is Sylvia?”, You are too late; all showings by ESU have passed. Fret not, though, for the Department of theatre will present “Top Girls” by Caryl Churchill from April 30 to May 5.

If you are feeling slightly more ambitious, do as Misurella says, and “Just go outside of your comfort zone and try out for a show, even if you’ve never auditioned before.”

Email Jamie at:
jreese6@live.esu.edu