November 25, 2024

The Whipping Man comes to Carousel Theatre

The Ula Love Doughty Carousel Theatre spring season kicks off with a three man show – The Whipping Man.

The play opens on Jan. 31, starting at 7:30 p.m. The play continues in the Carousel Theatre on Jan. 31-Feb.2, Feb.5-9 and Feb.12-16. All showings are at 7:30 p.m.

The play, by Matthew Lopez, based on an injured Jewish confederate returning home after the Civil War to two of his former slaves.

A preview of The Whipping Man was held on Jan. 30 at 7:30 p.m. in the Clarence Brown Theatre. Among the packed house, the audience marveled as the free slaves, Simon and John care for their former master and soldier, Caleb – played by UT graduate candidate, Steve Sherman. And as secrets started to unfold and their relationships unravel, they were left with life-altering decisions that reflected the new changes born from the war’s outcome.

Student Arianna Nance, who was a first time attendee at the Carousel Theatre, talked about her experience. “I loved how it was historically accurate and how they portrayed the relationship between a master and his slave – or a freed slave,” said Nance.

“I think my favorite part about the play was the satire they did at the end,” said audience member Caitlin Evens. “I was really impressed by the actors. This was my first play at school, and I’ll definitely be coming back for more.”

Tickets are available through Clarence Brown Theatre’s box office and website.

Edited by Gabrielle O’Neal