MET Presents CURSE OF THE STARVING CLASS

Maryland Ensemble Theatre (MET) is proud to present Curse of the Starving Class. In this dark comedy, a family's survival in a harsh and changing world is put to the test. The play is set in a farmhouse in the American West, inhabited by the Tate family, who has enough to eat but not enough to satisfy the other pangs of hunger that bedevil them. As the show progresses, the characters fall victim to the dark underbelly of American life-and become benighted innocents pursuing a dream that remains beyond their reach.

Curse of the Starving Class was first performed in 1978, and audiences continue to resonate with the economic woes experienced by the main characters. The show became more relevant than ever after the crash of the housing market, and modern audiences are sure to see a little bit of themselves in the Tates. Director Peter Wray is looking forward to tackling the play's familiar themes. "Modern audiences will be familiar with the hopes and dreams of the Tate family. Their plight is a steadfast clinging to the American Dream - a hope for a better life, a desire to raise themselves out of abject deprivation, and a ravenous pursuit of moving themselves up the ladder of our capitalist society."

The Curse of the Starving Class production team includes Director Peter Wray, Stage Manager Kevin Cole, Assistant Stage Manager Amber George, Scenic Designer Ira Domser, Lighting Designer Matt Weese, Sound Designer Doug Grove, Costume Designer Jennifer Adams and Properties Devin Gaither.

The cast includes: The cast includes: Julie Herber as Ella, Sean Byrne as Wesley, Karli Cole as Emma, Tad Janes as Weston, J.D. Sivert as Taylor, Jack Evans as Ellis and Steve Custer and Malcolm.

Curse of the Starving Class opens on Friday, April 5 and runs until Sunday, April 28, Thursdays through Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $24 for adults and $20 for students and seniors. Tickets may be purchased by phone at (301) 694-4744, online at marylandensemble.org or in person at the MET box office. Come learn about the struggles of family life in this bitter comedy.