Ordinary life is rarely ordinary in “Middletown.”
Lamar University’s department of theatre & dance will present Will Eno’s eponymous play, Feb. 19–22, in the Studio Theatre.
The play follows the residents of a small American town as they navigate love, loss and the quiet moments that define everyday existence.
Senior Porter LaPray, who plays John Dodge, said the script’s naturalistic dialogue drew him in immediately.
“The text is very conversational,” LaPray said. “Whenever I question whether I’m saying a line right, I just think about how I would say it in my own voice.”
John’s story tackles depression and a suicide attempt, giving the role emotional weight. LaPray said playing such heavy material has required balancing vulnerability with personal boundaries.
“I’ve had to remind myself that I’m playing John Dodge — I’m not Porter,” he said. “It’s important to tell stories like this, but it’s also important to protect yourself while doing it.”
Senior Gracie Parsley portrays Mary Swanson, a warm and uplifting presence in the town. Parsley said she was drawn to the play’s ensemble approach, which gives space to many voices.
“There’s so much going on with so many different characters,” she said. “It makes the town feel full and alive.”
Mary’s positivity contrasts with some of the play’s darker themes, something Parsley said challenged her as an actor.
“She’s very uplifting, even when things get heavy,” Parsley said. “Finding how those two things exist together has been really rewarding.”
Sophomore Mallory Craigen, who plays the town’s doctor, said the play initially reminded her of Thornton Wilder’s “Our Town”, but its voice quickly stood out as something uniquely Eno.
“It’s a text I’ve never dealt with before,” she said. “The language expresses itself in a really different way. Rehearsals have taught me the power of really listening to each other on stage.”
Despite its philosophical undertones, the production still leaves room for humor and humanity. LaPray describes it as “heavy,” “mundane” and “funny,” noting that its focus on everyday life is what makes it resonate.
Parsley said the town itself is a place defined by connection and simplicity.
“They’re fulfilled with their everyday lives,” she said. “The small moments feel like the best days ever.”
The actors said they hope audiences leave the theater feeling reflective rather than overwhelmed.
“I hope people feel a renewed sense of how important their lives are and how much they affect the people around them,” Parsley said.
For tickets, visit lutd.ludus.com.