By Judah Bucy/reporter
A mixture of comedy and drama brings the world of beauty pageants to NW Campus next week when the theater department presents Brad Bailey’s The Real Queen of Hearts Ain’t Even Pretty.
Audience members will have the chance to see the play up close and personal Wednesday-Sunday, April 23-27.
The production will use “thrust” seating. Because of this, the audience will be able to enjoy the show on a more personal level.
The thrust seating does just what the name implies—it actually puts the audience on stage with the performers. However, because of this unique chance, the stage manager said the seating is limited to about 90-100 people per performance.
Set in Double Springs, Ala., in 1976, the play is a dark-humored comedy featuring Liz, the future ringleader; Cass, the follower stuck in the present; Sherri Lee, the new girl in school and pageant queen with a secret, and Paula, the girl who is neither popular nor unpopular.
When the high school beauty pageant begins, the sparks behind the stage, actually in the lady’s locker room, fly.
Brigette Marquardt plays Paula Burgess, a girl who struggles with body image and is always living in the metaphorical shadow of her sister. Marquardt sees a little of herself in the character she plays.
“I talk a lot like her,” she said. But besides that, Marquardt said she is her own person, but believes she knows how to bring life to the role.
Sophia Basiliadis plays Cass Wilson in the show. Cass is a popular girl whom other young women wouldn’t dare talk bad about. She is particularly looking forward to her role in the show.
“This is my first time on stage at TCC,” she said.
Katreeva Phillips as Liz Nichols and Samantha Herek as Sherri Lee Speer round out the cast.
It is suggested that children under the age of 15 should have parental guidance if attending the show because of some adult topics and some profanity.
Reservations are required and can be made by calling 817-515-7724.
Because of limited seating, those wanting to attend should reserve their tickets early to ensure a seat.
The Real Queen of Hearts Ain’t Pretty
Warning: Adult Content
NW 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
