Original stage production about a near-future dystopian society
Creative Action Unlimited, a Capital Region theater/film production company dedicated to creating original work about social issues, announces the opening of its 2022-23 season in its new performance space at Russell Sage College in Troy, with the November 2022 stage premiere of “Sides.”
Set in near-future America, Sides explores the denunciation of neighbors, friends and family that emerges in a society where personal choices are increasingly dictated by the government.
The story focuses on the residents of two adjacent households and their individual struggles with the government’s mandate to denounce others for the good of the Nation. With the government represented by a presence identified only as “the Lion,” members of the society are encouraged to live their lives by three guiding principles: “Live right. Choose carefully. Feed the Lion.” The play explores the erosion of individual rights and the resulting moral dilemmas faced by individuals whose choices are systematically controlled.
Cast and crew: This production is directed by Michael Kennedy, assisted by Sara Paupini, with an ensemble cast including Maureen Baillargeon Aumand, D. Colin, Kristin Crouch, Andrew Deitch, Jae Gayle, Jay Hunter, Michael A. Lake, Tony Pallone, and David Quiñones Jr. Cast members researched the themes of the play, then participated in collaborative script development, working together to imagine a dystopian world that could realistically emerge in the United States within the next few years.
Performances: “Sides” will be performed on stage at the Meader Little Theater, Russell Sage College, 65 1st St., Troy, N.Y., for two consecutive weekends: November 18/19 and 25/26 at 7:30 pm each evening and an additional 2:00 pm matinee on 11/19 and 11/26. Tickets are $15/$12 (students/seniors) and may be purchased online in advance at https://Sides.eventbrite.com or at the door the night of the event.