Some claim that the eyes are the windows to the soul. However, the truth can really be discovered in our iPhones and CrackBerries. Our photos, texts and voicemails are precious secrets we hope to keep safely concealed in our pockets. We keep our cells tightly strapped to ourselves at all times, shifting our eyes up from texting only to ensure we are able to walk across the street without getting hit by that clueless jackass in the Oldsmobile.
But imagine having that glue between you and your little darling pried off. What would happen if someone else had complete access to your cell phone, your world? Oh the secrets that they could uncover! (Cue a certain golfer who had been doing some putting around of his own). This heart-wrenching fear is played out on stage in Sarah Ruhl’s comedy “Dead Man’s Cell Phone” set to be performed at the Hippodrome State Theater from January 6 to 31.
Jean, a simple woman, was minding her own business in a quaint cafe when she suddenly found herself answering an abandoned cell phone. Much to her surprise, the phone belongs to a deceased man, Gordon. By answering the phone, Jean is soon sucked into Gordon’s topsy-turvy life of lies, a hidden mistress and his kooky family.
“Dead Man’s Cell Phone” is a production that is unparalleled not only in its characters, but in its costumes and set designs, as well. Emmy Award-winning costume designer Marilyn Wall captures the oddities in her stylish designs.
“This play really is a feast for the eyes. The set, the lights, the costumes — it’s really a spectacle that can only be experienced in a live theater,” Altmeyer said.
Sure to evoke multiple laughs, “Dead Man’s Cell Phone” also serves as a scope into the modern lifestyles we have adapted with our beloved technologies.
“The production poses many questions to the value we hold toward connection. We seem to be in the most contact we have ever been, and yet, we are less connected as a result. ‘Dead Man’s Cell Phone’ allows a humorous look into this,” Altmeyer said.
Under the direction of Lauren Caldwell, there will be eight shows a week. Tickets are priced at $12 for students. For more information, visit thehipp.org.
“Dead Man’s Cell Phone” is surely a production for the modern generation. And after leaving the theater, you may want to consider enabling a pass code on your mobile. After all, your secrets can all be uncovered in the pass of a finger on a screen or with the push of a button.
