By Raegan Scharfetter/ reporter

NE Campus is taking students back in time with The Farnsworth Invention by Aaron Sorkin, opening Nov. 30.

Directed by drama associate professor Jakie Cabe, the play is about Philo Farnsworth, who invented the television signal transmission, and David Sarnoff, the RCA president who stole the design.

“Aaron Sorkin, his dialogue is fast,” Cabe said. “He packs a lot of information, but the characters have interesting interactions and fun repartees.”

The production focuses on the battle between two inventors to make the best cathode ray tube.

It follows the story of Sarnoff from his point of view as he dukes it out with Farnsworth.

NE student Riley Mendez, who plays Farnsworth, said this is a historical play with a strong, relatable message.

“The deeper meaning is that the mind of one person can change the future,” he said. “I [Farnsworth] go against what people tell me to do and just aspire to do what I want to do.”

NE student Matthew John, who plays Sarnoff, said his role is dynamic and creates a controversial play. Aside from musicals, this is his first play at TCC, which makes this a different role for him to portray.

“He’s a very different person up until the end,” he said. “He has a sense of conviction. It is definitely a lot of acting.”

Cabe hopes audiences will get a history lesson that’s meaningful and relevant.

“If they’ve watched a TV at any point in their lives, they should see this show,” he said. “I want them to learn about these things in their back pockets. Everyone has a TV in their back pocket or purse now.”

Performances are free for all TCC students, faculty and staff. Tickets are $3 for non-TCC students and senior citizens and $6 for the general public.

Showtimes are 7 p.m. Nov. 30-Dec. 3 with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday in the NE Playhouse.

For reservations, call 817-515-6687 or email neplayhouse@tccd.edu.