10-25-01

By Mark Floyd, 541-737-0788
SOURCE: Marion Rossi, 541-737-4917

CORVALLIS - An award-winning play called "KIND NESS," by internationally acclaimed theater artist Ping Chong, will lead off the 2001-02 season for the University Theatre program at Oregon State University.

Performances of "KIND NESS" will run Nov. 8-10 and Nov. 15-17 in the Withycombe Hall main theater beginning at 7:30 p.m. The performance on Friday, Nov. 16, will be sign language-interpreted.

"KIND NESS" is an unusual look at the nature and meaning of kind and kindness in American society. The story chronicles a gorilla named Buzz and his human friends, as they grow to adulthood in the 1950s. Mixing a variety of media - including music, slides and vaudeville routines - the play examines the differences and similarities of people and the human experience.

Both humorous moving, the thought-provoking "KIND NESS" ultimately questions how individuals are taught to make, and believe in, meaningless distinctions between people and societies.

Eight undergraduate OSU students, playing different roles and characters of different ages, comprise the cast. Aaron Windeler portrays the central figure of Buzz, the gorilla.

"KIND NESS" is directed by Marion O. Rossi Jr. Richard George is the scene and lighting designer and Barbara Mason is costume designer. Amber Pepper is stage manager, and Delaney Deaver, assistant director.

Tickets for the play may be reserved by calling 541-737-2784 beginning Nov. 5. They are priced at $8 for general admission, $5 for seniors, and $4 for students. Season tickets also are available; for more information, call 541-737-2853.

The cast and crew of "KIND NESS" includes:

• CORVALLIS
  Delaney Deaver, a senior in theater, assistant director; Amy Edwards, a freshman in theater, as Daphne; Anna Fale, a senior in theater, as Dot; J.C. Howry, a senior in speech communication, stagehand.

• COTTAGE GROVE
  Aaron Windeler, a junior in philosophy, as Buzz the gorilla.

• MONROE
  Aerin Holman, a senior in apparel design, as Lulu.

• SALEM
  Eric Schutz, a senior in math, as Rudy.

• WEST LINN
  

  Jeffrey Root, a sophomore in English, as Alvin.

• DAYTON, Ohio
  Allison Miller, a sophomore in biology and theater, narrator.

• HOUSTON, Texas
  Amber Pepper, a junior in archaeology, stage manager.

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