The University of Akron (UA) Theatre program continues its 2018-19 season with Maxim Gorky’s The Lower Depths. Directed by guest artist Jimmie Woody, the play features a diverse cast of 16, including UA students and community members. Performance dates for The Lower Depths are February 28, March 1, 2, 7, 8 at 7:30 P.M. and March 3, 9 at 2:00 P.M. All performances take place in Sandefur Theatre in Guzzetta Hall, 157 University Avenue on The University of Akron campus. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $5 for all students. Tickets can be purchased at thelowerdepthsua.eventbrite.com. UA theatre alumni are encouraged to attend the production on Alumni Night, Friday, March 1, when they and one guest will be admitted for the student price of $5 each. Please note, The Lower Depths contains mature themes that some may not find suitable for young children. For more information on all show events, visit www.uakron.edu/dtaa/performancesor call (330) 972-7895.

Written by revolutionary Russian playwright, Maxim Gorky, The Lower Depthsdepicts a group of impoverished individuals living in a homeless shelter. First premiered in Russia in 1902, The Lower Depths explores the dichotomy between the harsh truths of the characters’ reality and the comforting lies that pervade their lives. Most of the characters choose to delude themselves over the bleak reality of their conditions. The UA Theatre production moves the action to New York City circa 1910 and highlights the many different social classes and ethnic tensions of the era. Guest director Jimmie Woody is a Northeast Ohio actor/director who was recently featured in Cleveland Playhouse’s production of Sweat.