Death Row, Hollywood Intrigue Headline University Theatre’s Fall Studio Series

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The Little Dog Laughed and The Exonerated headline University Theatre’s Studio Series

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – University Theatre presents its Studio Series Thursday, Oct. 25, through Wednesday, Oct. 31. The Little Dog Laughed will be performed on Thursday, Friday and Saturday in Kimpel Hall’s Studio 404. The Exonerated runs Sunday through Wednesday at Nadine Baum Studios on W. Spring St. All shows begin at 8 p.m.

While the University Theatre is generally known for its main stage productions full of elaborate sets and larger scaled shows, these performances allow audiences to experience a stripped-down production. By omitting the technical components of full-scale productions, the audience experiences the show in a much more intimate setting and give actors and directors the opportunity to explore different methods and techniques. The two shows will only appear during the Studio Series and are not part of the University Theatre’s regular season.

The Little Dog Laughed, written by Douglas Carter Beane and directed by master of fine arts directing candidate Brandyn Smith, is a satirical look at the games and deals required to survive in Hollywood. The story surrounds Mitchell, a rising star with a straight-as-an-arrow image, who falls for Alex, a young male prostitute. This budding relationship threatens Mitchell’s career as his manager struggles and schemes to protect her potential golden boy. Meanwhile, Alex and Mitchell find themselves in the middle of their own mix of secrets and complications, including Alex’s girlfriend.  

The Exonerated, written by Jessica Blake and Erik Jensen and directed by Morgan Hicks, tells the true story of six Americans who were imprisoned, placed on Death Row and eventually proven not guilty after years of wrongful imprisonment. The authors use courtroom transcripts, personal interviews and testimonies to weave together the stories and struggles of these six individuals.

All performances are free and open to the public. For more information about the shows or their locations, please email drama@uark.edu or visit the department of drama website.

Campus parking is available in the Stadium Drive Parking Facility, where parking is free after 5 p.m. The facility’s entrance is on Stadium Drive, and the elevator will take patrons to Garland Avenue. Paid parking near Nadine Baum Studios can be found in lots on West Ave., Spring St. and School Ave.