Clark to Present the Dark Comedy "Curse of the Starving Class"

Clark College Theatre proudly presents "Curse of the Starving Class," the classic of modern American theatre.

“See, I always figured on the future. I banked on it. I was banking on it getting better.…I figured that’s why everyone wants you to buy things. Buy refrigerators. Buy cars, house, lots, invest. They wouldn’t be so generous if they didn’t figure you had it comin’ in. At some point it had to be comin’ in.”  –Weston, from "Curse of the Starving Class"

Clark College Theatre opens its 2013-14 season with a mordant examination of American aspiration, "Curse of the Starving Class" by Sam Shepard. Winner of the 1976-77 Obie Award for best new American play, this is a major work by one of theatre’s most respected and celebrated writers. The production is directed by Mark Owsley and runs Nov. 8 - 23.

At once dark and absurdest, comic and challenging, Curse of the Starving Class focuses on the dysfunctional Tate clan—the drunken dreamer of a father, burned-out mother, rebellious teenage daughter, and idealistic son—as they struggle for control of the rundown family farm in a futile search for freedom, security, and ultimately meaning in their lives. 

The cast of Clark's production of "Curse of the Starving Class."

Clark College Theatre Program Director Gene Biby says, “Given the recent economic crisis, the issues raised in this drama are as relevant today as they were 35 years ago.”

Cast includes Derek J. Neiman (Weston), Emily Wells (Ella), Katie Lindstrom (Emma), Nicholas Detering (Wesley), and Andy Houseman (Taylor). 

Production includes nudity, strong language, and adult themes.

Show Dates: November 8, 9, 15, 16, 21, 22, and 23 in the Decker Theater. All show times are at 7:30 p.m. November 16, there will also be a 2 p.m. matinee. Ticket Information: Students (with ID) $9; Alumni (with membership) $9; Senior Citizens $11; General Admission $13. Tickets may be purchased in person at the Clark College Bookstore in Gaiser Hall, online at http://www.clarkbookstore.com/site_theatre.asp, or call 360-992-2815.

If you need accommodation due to a disability in order to fully participate in this event, contact Clark College’s Disability Support Services Office at 360-992-2314 or 360-991-0901 (VP), or visit Gaiser Hall room 137, two weeks before the event.