Chattanooga Times Free Press

‘The Glass Menagerie’

Back Alley Production­s presents peek into life of author Tennessee Williams

- STAFF REPORT

Back Alley Production­s will present “The Glass Menagerie,” the semi-autobiogra­phical classic by Tennessee Williams, in six performanc­es at Mars Theatre in LaFayette, Ga., beginning Friday, Sept. 15.

A memory play, “The Glass Menagerie” tells the story of the Wingfield family: a faded Southern belle named Amanda and her two children, Tom and Laura.

Tom is the narrator, a dreamer who longs for independen­ce, but is tethered to home as the only provider for his family in the absence of his father. Laura is a shy, crippled girl who spends her time admiring her glass animals in lieu of any social life. Neither are happy.

“I have always admired Williams’ way of writing,” says director Kelsea Rambin-Smith. “His imagery is what has always drawn me in. I’m especially drawn to ‘Glass,’ as it is known to be his most powerful. We get a better glimpse into what Williams was like, and why he wrote like he did.”

The equilibriu­m of the unhappy Wingfield family struggles along, but is soon thrown off balance completely when Amanda makes a deal with Tom: He can finally leave home once he finds a husband to take care of Laura.

The show stars Jared Kane, Cynthia Hubler, Madison Smith and Alex Walker.

“I want you to feel a connection to these characters and think of them as family,” Rambin-Smith says. “When you perform in the round, it’s said to heighten the senses and bring more awareness. I am the first director of BAP to attempt a production in the round. It comes with its challenges, but the payoff is well worth it.”

General admission to the show is $15; students and seniors are $12. Tickets may be purchased online at www.BAPshows. com.

For more informatio­n: 706-483-6541.

 ?? CONTRIBUTE­D PHOTOS ?? Madison Smith, left, portrays anxiety-ridden Laura while Jared Kane portrays Tom, whose growing discontent­ment with his family is pushing him to leave.
CONTRIBUTE­D PHOTOS Madison Smith, left, portrays anxiety-ridden Laura while Jared Kane portrays Tom, whose growing discontent­ment with his family is pushing him to leave.

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