Heavy subplots surround story of domestic dysfunction
HOUGHTON -- Homosexuality, mental illness, and teen pregnancy are a few of the issues that plague a Midwestern mom and her three daughters in the story, Independence.
It begins with the tense homecoming of oldest daughter, Kess, a professor and lesbian who's been living in Minneapolis for the past four years. The visit doesn't impress youngest daughter, Sherry, who, at 19, has already had a baby and wants only to finish high school and fly the coop.
Set in the small town of Independence, Iowa, this domestic drama focuses on the dysfunctional relationship they share with mom, Evelyn, and middle daughter, Jo.
"Evelyn is very needy," says Trish Helsel. "She needs love but isn't very good at giving it. She needs her daughters to be there for her because she is dysfunctional."
"She is kind of plain and tries to make everyone happy, but she also has a romantic side," says Liz LaRouche. "I think a lot of people can relate to my character because she goes through a struggle that young people and old people have dealt with before."
The Tech Theatre Company performed the play at McArdle Theatre for the first time last weekend.
Despite some heavy subplots, the story of a family and its struggles is something the director says that many people can identify with.
"It’s remarkable that people who grow up in the same family turn out so different," says director Roger Held. "Young people have a difficult time for a variety of reasons, and I think it has relevance to our audience, both in the community and for students."
If you haven't seen Independence yet, you have three more chances to catch the play this weekend.
Everyone who attends Friday’s show will be invited to participate in a public discussion about being different immediately following the performance.
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