By Joshua Knopp/entertainment editor
“If you like laughing, you’ll like this show,” said John Wade on NW Campus’ production The Nerd, running Dec. 8-12.
Wade plays Rick, the so-named nerd and Vietnam veteran who saved the life of Willum, the main character played by Daniel Moore.
“Willum had a simple, easy non-combative job,” Moore said. “Rick was actually a soldier.”
Willum was shot, however, and dragged to safety by Rick but never got a good look at him. The two don’t see each other for a few years, but one day Rick unexpectedly appears in need of a place to stay. That is when Willum, his girlfriend Tansy and roommate Axel learn that Rick is an unbearable nerd.
“Is there anyone who gets on your nerves?” Moore asked in explanation. “Imagine that person came and lived with you.”
The educational benefits of the story are strong, said director Alex Chrestopoulos.
“Since it’s a comedy, it’s a genre that allows the student-actor an opportunity to draw characterizations in broad strokes.”
The actors are glad this play was chosen.
“It’s one of the funniest stories I’ve ever read,” said Brittney Hale, who plays Tansy.
“Everybody needs a little laughter in their lives,” agreed Brian Johnson, playing Axel.
Other students found more in it than humor.
“It’s a coming-of-age story,” Moore said. “He [Willum] gets walked over a lot, but at the end of the play, he learns to stand up for Rick.”
Lauren Devoll, who plays Clelia Waldgrave, found relationships to be the most important thing in the play — both on and off stage.
“I enjoy working with members of the cast,” she said. “Interactions with people are my favorite part of it.”
Devoll agreed with the rest of the cast that the main draw for the audience is the comedy.
“It’s funny, and it’s around finals time,” she said. “People need that.”
Stage manager Kelsey Jones agreed with the cast, “People will be rolling in the aisles.”
Performances are 7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday and 4 p.m. Sunday in the WTLO Theatre. Tickets are $6 for general admission, $3 for seniors and non-TCC students and free for TCC student, faculty and staff.
