ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University students compose and direct an original production that celebrates the university’s furry friends and the journey to find 'something greater'
ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University students compose and direct an original production that celebrates the university’s furry friends and the journey to find 'something greater'
“Verlin Pulley: The Remaking of a Man” is an original student work by junior Theatre and Creative Writing double major Max Kaufman and directed by junior Psychology major Bradley Beck. Performances are Oct. 25 and 26 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 27 at 2 p.m. in Studio 88 of ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University’s Center for Performing Arts building. With a lightheartedness and playful spirit, “Verlin Pulley: The Remaking of a Man” is the adventure you never knew you needed; whether you're a puppy or a person, this play reflects the journey of finding your purpose.
The play highlights the lives of ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University President Gregory Crawford and University Ambassador Dr. Renate Crawford’s pups Newton and Ivy. “When Bradley asked me to write something for him to direct, I knew I wanted to take advantage of the iconography of the university,” playwright and producer Kaufman said. “Nothing is more iconic than Newton and Ivy Crawford.”
“Verlin Pulley: The Remaking of a Man” explores ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University landmarks and legends through the eyes of Newton and Ivy, who are searching for their “something greater” in life. It’s reminiscent of the many students who are finding their way in life at the university, making it a great show for students, alumni, and families alike.
"I've enjoyed discovering how even a story about two dogs at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University can be so universal and moving,” Beck said. "Directing a show about ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú has brought me closer to the unique tradition of this university.”
“By bringing these icons into conversation, I gave myself the opportunity to make meaning and find depth in things I didn’t understand — which is sort of what theatre is perfect for.” Kaufman said. After finishing the script, Kaufman’s work won The Edward J. Montaine Award in English from the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Department of English.
“Verlin Pulley: The Remaking of a Man” shows Oct. 25 and 26 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 27 at 2 p.m. in Studio 88. Admission is free, with the request that attendees RSVP.
About the Show
Before Ivy, a golden retriever, comes to live with the Crawfords, she can already hear them: the bells! But what could they mean? Could it be that someone is trapped inside of Pulley Tower, calling for rescue through high frequency sound-signals? Ivy says yes. Rescuing that trapped person, however, is going to be a challenge. Newton might mess up all her plans, too. (He’s also a golden retriever.) For Ivy to do something greater, she’s going to have to make a change. And honestly, she can’t even roll over. Things may get ruff!
