Duke Theater Studies presents 'Lower D's'

DURHAM -- The Duke University Department of Theater Studies will present "The Lower D's," based on the Russian play "The Lower Depths" by Maxim Gorky, Nov. 12-21.

Jay O'Berski of the Duke Theater Studies faculty will direct the play.

O'Berksi decided to set "The Lower D's" not in Russia but in Lagos, Nigeria--and to do so with a minimal budget. The play is also being designed to be a carbon-neutral production, with no new materials purchased for the play and all energy use related to the play off-set by sponsors.

Because the play focuses on life in a homeless shelter, spending money to create an elaborate set seemed "antithetical" to O'Berski. Working with set designer Torry Bend, student actors in the play went on Dumpster-diving expeditions around Durham to find materials for their set and costumes.

"The Lower D's" performances are Nov. 12-14 at 8 p.m.; Nov. 15 at 2 p.m.; Nov. 19-21 at 8 p.m. at the Sheafer Theater in the Bryan Center. Tickets are $10 general admission, $5 students and senior citizens; Information: 684-4444; tickets.duke.edu.

-- From staff reports