CSULB Theatre and Cal Rep Present Caryl Churchill's FAR AWAY, Starting Tonight

CSULB Theatre Arts Department and California Repertory Company are thrilled to present Caryl Churchill's play FAR AWAY in the newly upgraded University Theatre. The process of returning to the University Theatre began over two years ago and required the concerted efforts of numerous individuals across campus.

Key players who facilitated Cal Rep's return to the University Theatre include President Jane Close Conoley, Provost David Dowell, COTA Dean Cyrus Parker-Jeanette, and Former Dean Chris Miles. Other key players include include Colleen Ryan, COTA Facilities Coordinator, David Salazar, Assoc. VP, PPFM; Tony Malagrino, Director, Facilities; Mike Blazey, Director, Academic Facilities; and Michael Garner, Capital Projects Manager. Interim Theatre Arts Chair, Chris Burnett and Theatre Arts faculty and staff members including Anne D'Zmura, Stephanie Losleban, Rob Waltz, David Jacques, Dave Goyette, Ashley Boehne-Ehlers, Megan Kline Crockett, Ben Karasik, and Noreen Kimura.

FAR AWAY, written by Caryl Churchill and directed by Trevor Biship, is a timely and thought-provoking work set in a government-controlled dystopia, following a young woman as she becomes an adult and struggles to understand the world around her.

Previous California Repertory Company performance venues include the Edison Theatre and more recently the Royal Theatre aboard the Queen Mary. The University Theatre will provide a larger venue than the Royal Theatre with over 200 additional seats.

The return to the University Theatre will provide Cal Rep productions with a technologically updated performance venue for students to work in and for public enjoyment. Renovations to the University Theatre include the replacement of the old theatrical lighting with new electrical, dimming, and lighting fixtures that are both state-of-the-art and energy efficient. Also included in the upgrade are new LED house lights for classes in the space as well as LED work lights for rehearsals and general use. Several rigging issues have been addressed and new curtains were purchased and hung. The theatre's booth has been renovated and outfitted with a new audio console; a new floor has been laid onstage, along with a new steel-deck structured orchestra pit.

FAR AWAY opens tonight, November 13th and closes December 5th. Performances run Wednesday through Saturday at 8pm. There will be no performances November 25-28. This production is presented in the University Theatre on the CSULB Campus, accessible via West Campus Drive. Tickets are $25 for general admission and $20 for students, seniors, and military (with valid ID). Convenient parking is available in Parking Lot 7 next to the theatre building for $5. For tickets and additional information, call (562) 985-5526 or visit calrep.org.