NEWS

Tech performing arts professor brings play to Ruston

Aug 28, 2012 | General News, Liberal Arts

School may not be in session yet, but Paul Crook, a Louisiana Tech performing arts professor, has school on his mind with an upcoming performance of David Mamet’s “Oleanna.” B&B Theatre, founded by Crook and his wife, Mary Fran Crook, teamed up with the North Central Louisiana Arts Council to bring this play to Ruston. “Oleanna” is a drama about a university student who accuses her professor of sexual harassment. Allie Bennett, who owns the downtown business of Stitchville, will play the student, and Crook will play the male professor. Performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 3-5 in the Norton Building, located at 207 W. Mississippi Ave. Tickets are $10 at the door, and half the proceeds will be donated to the Domestic Abuse Resistance Team. After each performance, a discussion session will be held to discuss the play and the topic of sexual harassment. B&B Theatre stands for baskets and beverages, which Crook said he encourages individuals to bring before the show starts. Due to individuals’ enthusiasm for the pre-show festivities, Crook said a little competition was in order. “We encourage them to bring their baskets and beverages and come early to enjoy music and fun before the show starts,” he said. “After our first production of ‘Graceland’ last year, we noticed some people got really elaborate with setting up their tables so we decided to have a table decorating contest as part of the next show.” For “Oleanna,” the theme is “School Spirit.” Patrons are invited to decorate their tables around that theme with the chance of winning gift cards from local businesses as prizes. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. each night. For more information, visit the play’s Facebook page.