Schoolcraft College Theatre Department presents
“Clarkston”
April 4, 5, 11 and 12 at 7:30 p.m.
April 6 2 p.m. (Matinee)
James R. Hartman Theatre inside the Liberal Arts Building
Tickets: https://schoolcraft-college.ticketleap.com/clarkston/
Adults $20
Students $15
Recommended for 13-year-olds and up for mild language and thematic elements.
The Schoolcraft College Theatre Department presents its final production of the season, “Clarkston,”, performed during the first two weekends of April. Directed by Michael Alan Herman and originally written by Samuel D. Hunter, the play follows the star-crossed love story of Chris and Jake.The two meet while working at a Costco in Clarkston, Washington, each grappling with despair and uncertainty at what their futures may hold.
Chris, cast as Tabious Martin, aspires to be a writer. His mother is a recovering addict, and he struggles to maintain a healthy relationship with her; his trust broken one too many times. Martin communicates his character exclusively through sign language with interpreter Mandalynn George in the sidelines. No part of his character’s vividness is lost, however, as Martin skillfully utilizes body language and facial expressions to bring Chris to life.
Jake, played by Douglas Mularoni, who fully embodies the anxious and impulsive, yet passionate leading character. Jake finds himself working at the Costco after being diagnosed with a fatal disease. Mularoni’s performance stands out, impactfully delivering his character’s slipping control.
Rita Mays is cast as Trisha, Chris’s mother. Trisha struggles to prove herself to Chris and is one of the play’s central conflicts. Consistently throughout her presence on stage, Mays movingly delivers Trisha’s intense desperation to win back Chris’s trust.
Clarkston’s simple set design and strategic use of lighting also contribute to the play’s success, heightening each scene’s spectacle. Zach Hantz oversees the show’s technical direction, followed by Paul Beer who manages set design. The technical crew and overall set construction is made up of Josh Barker, Bianna Gidley, Melissa Huizing, Britney Touchstone and MaKayla Wade.
From its talented actors to its dedicated set production, Clarkston is an enduring drama and comedy that will catch you by surprise.
The show’s last two performances will take place April 11-12 at 7:30 p.m.. Tickets are available for purchase at the door or online.