Death comes for “Everybody” this November
By Edith Zavala Baquedano
Death comes for “Everybody” this November as Centenary College’s Theatre Program stages Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ darkly funny reimagining of the medieval morality play “Everyman.” Performances run Nov. 12-15 at Marjorie Lyons Playhouse.”
The story follows Everybody, a character who learns that their time on earth has come to an end and must explain to God how they have lived their life. As Everybody searches for someone to accompany them on their final journey, the play examines the limitations of material possessions and the importance of love and human connection.
Logan Sledge, chair of the Centenary Theatre Program and associate professor of theatre, said he and Kennedy Wilcher, assistant professor of theatre, were drawn to the play’s material and the challenges it presents in design, performance and technical theatre.
“For dealing with such a heavy topic, this play is very funny and has a lot of heart,” Sledge said. “It retains the spirit of a morality play while never lecturing the audience.”
The production combines several theatrical styles, including moments when actors speak directly to the audience, prerecorded dialogue, dreamlike sequences and a dance performance near the conclusion. Sledge said the creative team views the play as a metaphor for life, an interpretation reflected throughout the production’s design.
The play also provides opportunities for Centenary students to gain experience in acting, design and technical theatre. The production features a cast of 12, several of whom portray multiple roles, along with two additional dancers. Students also take on responsibilities in costume design, stage management, props, lighting, scenic construction and other aspects of the production.
“I am always so impressed with the work ethic our students have and the great professional habits they build by participating in the production work we offer,” Sledge said.
Emily Cordier, a junior pursuing a dual degree in theatre and English, is among the students participating in the production. Cordier also serves as dance captain, a responsibility that has allowed her to return to an art form she particularly enjoys.
“Dancing is something I’m so passionate about, and I’m so excited to be able to do it on the theatre stage again!” Cordier said.
Cordier said one of the challenges of preparing for the production has been developing her character from an ambiguous script with limited source material. Although working on the play has not changed her perspective on its themes, the experience has encouraged her to reflect more deeply on her own life.
“It has definitely made me more introspective about how I’m living my life and made me want to appreciate every moment of life more deeply,” Cordier said.
Cordier hopes audiences will enjoy the play’s humor and choreography by Kaitlyn Brown, while Sledge hopes the production will encourage reflection on the questions it raises.
“Theatre as an art form is uniquely positioned to encourage reflection,” Sledge said. “When you watch a play, you see yourself through the experiences of the characters.”
“Everybody” will be presented at Marjorie Lyons Playhouse, 2700 Woodlawn Ave. in Shreveport, Thursday, Nov. 12, through Saturday, Nov. 14, at 7:30 p.m., with a final performance Sunday, Nov. 15, at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for military members and seniors, and $10 for students with ID. Tickets can be purchased through the Centenary Theatre Program’s website at centenary.edu/mlptickets.