By Cory Armstrong/reporter
Many students will never get to experience military boot camp, especially during the Second World War.
However, they can certainly get a taste in Theatre Northwest’s production of Biloxi Blues, opening next week.
Biloxi Blues, a semi-autobiographical play written by Neil Simon, was the winner of the 1985 Tony Award for Best Play. You may even be familiar with the movie version that starred Matthew Broderick.
The New York Times said the play was “a fine comedy … joyous and unexpectedly rewarding ….”
Directed by Brent Alford, Biloxi Blues is the story of Eugene Morris Jerome who enlists in the U.S. Army during World War II and is sent to boot camp in Biloxi, Miss., where he learns about the trials and tribulations of life. He does all this while having to endure an eccentric drill sergeant, Merwin J. Toomey.
Justin Rhoads plays Eugene in the NW production. “The play is very, very funny and heartwarming at the same time,” he said. “Eugene is 18 or 19 years old and wants to be a writer. He tries to get by on his humor. Everyone in the play has their quirks,” he said.
Eugene is faced with many serious issues such as racism, anti-Semitism, sexuality and the cruelty of war throughout his misadventures. One example would be an encounter with Rowena, a “working girl” played by Brigette Marquardt.
Although the production contains strong language and adult situations, Marquardt said the play is not racy.
“There is no sex in the play,” she said. “Not even close.”
Marquardt said Biloxi Blues “is hysterical but also deals with serious issues too.”
This will be Samantha Herek’s third production at TCC. Samantha plays Daisy, a love interest of Eugene’s.
“Daisy and Eugene have a sweet and innocent relationship,” she said. “The play is really funny so far, and there is good chemistry.”
Herek said the play gives “a realistic look at being in the Army.”
“People can connect, like a teen comedy relevant to today,” she said.
Running Wednesday-Sunday, March 5-9, shows are 7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday in the NW Campus Theatre.
TCC students, faculty and staff can see the play at no charge. Adults are $6; senior citizens and non-TCC students are $3.
For reservations call (817) 515-7724.
Biloxi Blues
Warning: Adult Content
Northwest Campus
Showtimes: Wednesday-Saturday 7:30 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m.
Box Office: 817-515-7724
General Admission: $6
Non-TCC Students/Seniors: $3
TCC Students, Faculty, Staff: Free
