Extraordinary circumstances bring out adult emotion in 'Goat'

Andy Urschel, co–director of Valparaiso's Chicago Street Theatre's production of "The Goat, or Who is Sylvia," says many couples may identify with the emotions onstage despite the outrageous circumstances depicted in the celebrated drama.

"It's an adult show, and by the time we're adults, odds are you've had at least one relationship, and I think a lot of people can relate," he said. "A lot of people can put themselves in the place of how they feel about someone, whether they've experienced betrayal or what it might feel to be betrayed. The subject matter though, hopefully, not so much."

Opening Jan. 27 and running through Feb. 11, "Sylvia" tells the tale of Martin, a successful architect on the verge of turning 50, whose already marriage and family life is thrown into shambles when he is drawn to a titular–titled animal.

"Goat" was penned by acclaimed American playwright Edward Albee, whose credits include classics such as "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf" and "The Sandbox." The play made its debut on Broadway in 2002, where it received a Tony Award for Best Play, Drama Desk award for Best New Play and received a Pulitzer Prize nomination for Drama.

Urschel is directing "Goat" at Chicago Street with Justin Treasure.

"We're listening to this horrible ordeal and this sounds like two people who have been together for a long time and the way this affects them," he said. "The dialogue is exceptional."

Jim Henry from Wheeler plays Martin. He is joined by Lisa Formosa–Parmigiano from Crown Point as his wife, Stevie; Zachary Gipson from Valparaiso as his son, Billy; and Steve Holm, also of Valparaiso, as Martin's longtime friend, Ross.

"Our cast is really talented," Urschel said. "Everybody's doing their part and I'm feeling really good about this show."

A gala following the Jan. 27 opening of "Goat" is scheduled at Gelsosomo's, 2605 Laporte Ave., Valparaiso.

Due to adult situations, "Goat" is not recommended for young or sensitive audiences.

Next up for Chicago Street Theatre is the family–minded, teen–presented production "Red Licorice," scheduled to open Feb. 24.