Susquehanna University’s theater department presents a new perspective on normalcy, mental health, sexuality and passion.
“Equus” focuses on psychiatrist Dr. Martin Dysart as he is confronted with a patient, the likes of which he’s never seen before. Teenager Alan Strang commits a horrific act in a violent fit of passion that even Dr. Dysart struggles to understand.
This psychological thriller will lead to a dramatic confrontation and conclusion that will leave everyone in the audience with questions.
Directed by Dr. Kevin Crowe, “Equus” will be presented at the Degenstein Theater stage Sept. 27-29. Although this show introduces mature themes and content, such as nudity and acts of violence, Crowe says that the actors have been incredibly mature and professional about the subject matter.
Crowe urges people to read the content warnings and be self-aware of their personal comfort zones to ensure an enjoyable experience for all involved.
Heeding the director’s advice, senior Theater Performance major, Liam Finnerty, said that “Equus” will exceed all the audience expectations of any past shows.
Although this show features hand-tailored costumes, impressive lighting effects and spectacular sound, according to Crowe, Finnerty, who plays Dr. Martin Dysart, said, “people should come to it not expecting a theatrical show but a lesson.”
Finnerty and Crowe both described the show’s themes as being relevant to today’s technological and often passionless society.
“I want to see that I’m changing their lives because that’s most important to me,” said Finnerty.
For fellow senior theater studies major Kirsten Wierich, their opinions were no different. Wierich, who plays Hesther Salomon, said that this show conquers thought-provoking themes regarding religion, sexuality, homosexuality and mental health.
“It’s supposed to be difficult to sit through,” they said, “it’s going to make people think and reflect about their lives.”
However, she emphasized the importance of not letting the content warnings scare people away from a mesmerizing and breath-taking show that will change their perspective on normalcy and passion.
Being able to take more of a step back from the show than some of the principal actors, first-year Elliot Muller, who plays a horse, has been able see the true development of this show and get an understanding of the messages it is trying to convey.
“It’s one of the shows that you will keep thinking about,” said Muller, “there’s so much to unpack and it will change people’s perspectives and thoughts on daily life.”
So, be prepared for a breath-taking and powerful show that will leave the audience with many questions and new perspectives.
The spectacle that is “Equus” will premiere in Degenstein Theater on Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m., Sept. 28 at 7:30 p.m. and Sept. 29 at 2:30 p.m.
Tickets are free for current Susquehanna students, $8 for non-Susquehanna students, $10 for adults and $8 for seniors.
For more information or to purchase tickets, go to the box office in the Degenstein Campus Center Monday-Friday, noon-5p.m., or visit https://susqu.universitytickets.com/w/ .
*Content Warnings: Equus contains nudity, assimilated violence, strobe lights and strong language. This show is not recommended for young children.
Photography, videography and cellphone use of any kind is strictly prohibited during the show. More information on content warnings can be found in the link below: https://www.susqu.edu/calendar/event/25872-equus-by-peter-shaffer
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