‘Eye of God’ explores religion, morality, choices
Lamar University theater students are preparing for a production that explores heavy topics including religion, trust, violence and difficult personal choices.
Lamar alumna Caitlin Parker is directing “Eye of God” by Tim Blake Nelson. Parker said she was drawn to the play because its small-town Oklahoma setting reminded her of growing up in Southeast Texas.
“I felt like I really recognized the characters, and I knew who these people were,” Parker said. “I grew up in a town that was really similar to the one in this play.”
Parker said one of the biggest challenges is encouraging actors to portray characters who make morally difficult decisions without judging them.
“When you’re on stage playing them, you have to really believe that that’s the correct decision, for whatever reason,” Parker said.
Samantha Hatcher, a theater and English double major, is serving as stage manager for the first time. Hatcher previously worked as an actor, costume assistant, and lighting technician.
“Stage managing was kind of next on my list of things that I really wanted to do,” Hatcher said.
Hatcher said the role has given her a new perspective on theater as she coordinate actors, costumes, props, schedules, and rehearsals.
The production also includes scenes involving violence and intimacy. Hatcher said the cast is working carefully with a fight and intimacy director, emphasizing consent, boundaries, and communication.
“It’s a very careful process,” Hatcher said. “It’s a very planned process. Nothing is done without having discussed it first.”
The play revolves around Ainsley, a naive young woman who meets Jack, an ex-con she connected with through a correspondence program. Jack claims to have found God in prison, but he has secrets he is reluctant to reveal.
Senior Bailey Jenkins plays Jack. Jenkins said the character’s emotional shifts between scenes have been one of the most difficult parts of the role.
“It’s nice to have that Zen moment,” Jenkins said, explaining that he takes quiet time before scenes to prepare emotionally.
Sophomore Alexia White plays Ainsley. White said her own religious upbringing helped her connect with the character.
“I grew up very religious, and I’m not religious anymore, so I can relate to Ainsley in a lot of ways,” White said.
Despite the difficult subject matter, White said the production has become one of her favorite shows.
“It has a lot to say, and I think a lot of people should come see it,” White said.
Showtimes are today, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19 at 7:30 p.m., and Sept. 13, 20 at 2:30 p.m. in the Studio Theatre.
For tickets, visit lamar.edu/ lutdtix.