Works of Shel Silverstein come to life in theater production

Publication Date

Think you know Shel Silverstein? Think again.

Yulman Theater presents its first major production of the term, An Adult Evening of Shel Silverstein, a compilation of plays, poetry and music, all written by Shel Silverstein.

The work of Shel Silverstein played a large role in the childhood of Adjunct Professor of Theater Johnathan Albert. He has assembled eight plays and six poems by the famous writer to create the performance.

“Many people know Shel Silverstein for his children’s books,” said Albert. “What many people do not know is that he made a career for himself long before that as a cartoonist for Playboy magazine, was nominated for an Academy Award for best song in a motion picture, and wrote “A Boy Named Sue,” which was performed by Johnny Cash.”

Student performers include: Lucy Miller '16, Brandt Scott '16, Rose Dumbrigue '16, Colin Nelson '16, Ariella Honig '17, Steven Maksymowych '18, Matt Mintz '18, Angelica Rivera '18 and Florainne Walcott-Taylor '19. The stage manager is William Balta '16.

The performance is aptly named, since it highlights Silverstein’s darker side. The plays and poems come together as an absurd piece that wryly comments on relationships, communication, and how people treat one another. The Theater Department advises that the content of this performance is not suitable for children.

An Adult Evening of Shel Silverstein will run from February 4-6 at 7:30 p.m., with additional matinee performances on February 6 and 7 at 2:00 p.m.

Tickets are $7 for alumni, seniors and those with a Union ID and $10 for general admission. Purchase a ticket during box office hours on Monday-Friday from 12:30-1:30 p.m., or call (518) 388-6545 to reserve a ticket.