Student directs 'Time Stands Still' at Hawes theatre

Scene from 'Time Stands Still'

Hilary Matkovich and James Harden rehearse a scene from 'Time Stands Still.'

Could you sacrifice the life you know for a chance at happiness? What would you be willing to give up for another person? These are the questions at the heart of "Time Stands Still," the latest student-directed production from Radford University's Department of Theatre and Cinema.

Senior theatre major Chris Creane directs the timely, emotional piece, written by Pulitzer Prize winner Donald Margulies. The 2009 play tells the story of lovers Sarah and James, two journalists used to working in some of the world's most dangerous environments. When Sarah is injured while covering the Iraq war, the couple are forced to reevaluate their lifestyle.

The characters are physically and emotionally scarred and put in a position where they have to make sacrifices to find their way to happiness, Creane said. "I think we have lots of moments to teach people," he said. "This play relates to everybody."

Creane first read "Time Stands Still" when he served on the Department of Theatre & Cinema's play selection committee. The work resonated with Creane, who remembered it when he was looking for opportunities as a student director.  He jumped at the chance to stage a studio production of the show as part of RU's 2012-13 performance season.

The action takes place in a single apartment, which was perfect for the Hawes Studio Theatre, Creane said. "Intimacy is a huge thing in this play. You feel like you are right in the apartment. You're there right next to them."

"Time Stands Still" can be seen in the Hawes Studio Theatre in Porterfield Hall at 8 p.m. from Wednesday, Feb. 27, through Friday, March 1; at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday, March 2; and at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 3. Tickets are free but should be picked up at Porterfield Box Office in advance. The box office is open Monday through Friday, noon to 6 p.m., and one hour before each performance. For more information, call the box office at (540) 831-5289.

Feb 19, 2013
Dan Waidelich
(540) 831-7749
dwaidelich@radford.edu