Students were given the opportunity to witness firsthand the thrills of theatre at the Southeastern Theatre performance of “Baby With the Bathwater.”  
The play, written by Christopher Durang, portrays the struggles of parenting, marriage and defining oneself in a chaotic atmosphere. The dark comedy was directed by Chad Winters, instructor of acting and directing at Southeastern, and debuted on April 16 at 7:30 p. m. It was performed through April 19 at the Vonnie Borden Theatre in D Vickers.
The audience was thrilled as the absurdities of Durang’s work came to life in front of them through scenes that portrayed multiple points of a gender-confused and emotionally damaged child’s life.
Emily Cotten, a sophomore majoring in English, was entertained by Wednesday night’s performance, as the satirical nature was a lot to take in throughout the play.
“I thought it was really well-acted. Everybody on stage did a really good job,” said Cotton. “It’s one of those plays that I wanted to stop and process it. I really enjoyed it, and it was really funny.”
One of these many absurdities was the role performed by Harli Manuel, a freshman majoring in communication. Her characters ranged from a promiscuous and violent nanny to a flirtatious principal, both of which defied social norms.
Manuel shared her love of performing such a preposterous play. It serves as an escape from not only reality, but also an escape from the strain of homework and dorm life.
“I feel like it brings a new side of theatre that people don’t really understand,” said Manuel. “Not many people are involved in it because it is not that big right now. I feel like it encourages students to get out of their dorms and takes them away from the stress of studying.”
Janna Baza, a sophomore majoring in general studies with a concentration in theatre, played the roles of a concerned school teacher and a worried mother.
Baza shared her hopes to see more students involved in theatre on campus, as fresh faces are always welcome.
“I think it’s a good way of expanding students’ opportunities on campus,” said Baza. “It gives students a way to enjoy the arts and be a part of the school that they are at.”
Although this production has ended, students are encouraged to attend and audition for upcoming theatre performances on campus. Students can watch for auditions for “A Doll House” by Henrik Ibsen, a production being performed the week of Oct. 15 through18.