Nothing holds audiences’ attention better than controversy and scandal, two words that many have used to describe the upcoming play presented by the Suffolk Performing Arts Office, Bare: A Pop Opera.
Riddled with hard-to-swallow topics, Bare dares to go where no scholastically sponsored play has gone before. As taboo as the concepts seem, they’re all things that are on everyone’s mind and need to be talked about somehow, so why not with song?
The play is set at a Catholic boarding school, focusing on two homosexual male roommates, Peter and Jason. Once the two are shown to be involved in a secret relationship, the many subjects of the play begin to reveal themselves. From dealing with the influence of religion, thoughts of suicide, and the process of “coming out,” Bare leaves no topic untouched. The play also manages to incorporate elements that all have experienced such as struggles with one’s body image, isolation, and one’s identity during their teenage years. With such a full agenda for one play, it’s bound to be anything but a light performance.
Freshman Devin Scott, visibly excited for opening night, had a quick word with the Journal on the upcoming production, letting potential play goers know just what they’re in for. “A lot of the time, people hear how controversial it is and it makes them not want to see the show,” said Scott, “it’s definitely not a children’s show.”
“The general public has a tendency to make up their mind about the show before giving it a chance. Between the language and the subject matter most people come out hating it,” said Scott when asked how audiences would react. Continuing on, he encourages playgoers to brace themselves and to come with an open mind. “Its purpose is to use the controversy to define the gap between generations and make it easier for us to understand those who may have views different than our own.”
As a buildup to the show, the Performing Arts Office has lined up the week with events relating to the themes of the play, some of which being “LGBT and Religion” on Tuesday and “Love Your Body” on Thursday. These lead up to the premiere of the bold performance Bare: A Pop Opera on Friday at 8:00 p.m., with a talk back with the counseling center immediately following the show.
Regardless of whether one is gay or straight, Bare is a show that’s bound to leave audiences with lots to think about.
