The University of Winnipeg’s Department of Theatre and Film presents Everybody by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins. This modern adaptation of one of the first recorded plays in the English language will be performed by the Acting III: Honours class and directed by faculty member Hope McIntyre. The livestream performances can be viewed from February 15 – 19, 2022, but reservations must be made via UWinnipeg’s Department of Theatre and Film to receive a link to view the play.
This thought-provoking play seems to explore the randomness of death, but in fact it is very much about life; specifically, how we each choose to live our lives.
“As we continue to navigate a complex and chaotic world, Jacobs-Jenkins’ beautifully written script allows us to ask the question: what is truly important?” said McIntyre. “The character of Everybody has waited too long to realize what it means to live a good life. Their journey inspires us to assess our own priorities. It is also presented in an extremely humorous and entertaining way!”
The character of Everybody takes a voyage of discovery that includes encounters with personifications of Friendship, Stuff, Beauty, and Love, among others. This modern interpretation of a medieval morality play also brings into focus debates about how we navigate identity, social media, capitalism, and climate change.
Jacobs-Jenkins was a 2018 finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in Drama for his play Gloria. He also won the Obie Award for Best New American Play for his plays Appropriate and Octaroon. He is known for tackling contemporary society’s most difficult issues with satire and humour. He has stated: “I’m someone who believes very much in the importance of history. I’m very moved by this idea that our lives are predicated on people living — much as we are — through trial and error, surviving and making sense of themselves.”
UWinnipeg’s production features costume design by faculty member Adam Parboosingh, set design by student Devon Helm, and lighting designs by alumna Ksenia Broda-Milian. All technical work is done by both junior and senior production students. Following strict health and safety protocols, the eight-member cast will perform from the Asper Centre for Theatre and Film.
Everybody livestreams Tuesday, February 15 through Saturday, February 19 at 7:30 pm each evening. Everyone is welcome to tune in to view the live performance from the comfort of their own home. Admission is free, but reservations are required in order to receive the link. Please call the 24-hour Reservation Line at 204.786.9152 or visit UWinnipeg’s Department of Theatre and Film.
Content warning: The performance includes discussion of death.
Based in the Asper Centre for Theatre and Film at The University of Winnipeg, the Department of Theatre and Film offers concentrations in acting, design, drama in education, filmmaking, playwriting, and production/stage management. Our classes are small and our approach is practical. Our faculty is comprised of highly respected and award-winning professionals who are experienced teachers and remain active in their disciplines, bringing relevant and up-to-date instruction to our students.
MEDIA CONTACT
Hope McIntyre, Director
email: h.mcintyre@uwinnipeg.ca,
Christopher Brauer, Department Chair,
c.brauer@uwinnipeg.ca
