LU Theatre & Dance opens season with ‘Ugly Lies the Bone’

The Lamar University Department of Theatre & Dance will open its first production of the semester with "Ugly Lies the Bone," written by Lindsey Ferrentino and directed by assistant professor Alan Brincks.

The play will run Sept. 25 to 28 in the Studio Theatre, with performances at 7:30 p.m. and a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m.

"Ugly Lies the Bone" follows newly discharged soldier Jess Knox as she returns to her Florida hometown after suffering painful burns in Afghanistan. Using virtual reality video game therapy, Jess begins to confront her injuries while adjusting to a community that has changed since she left.

Ferrentino, a New York-based playwright originally from Florida, saw "Ugly Lies the Bone" named a New York Times Critic's Pick after a sold-out extended run off-Broadway at the Roundabout Theatre Company. Charles Isherwood of the Times called her "a brave playwright of dauntless conviction."

Taking on the title role of Jess Knox, LU acting student Gracie Parsley said the play has pushed her as a performer.

"'Ugly Lies the Bone' is unlike any show that I have done before," Parsley said. "I'm looking forward to challenging myself with the mental/physical trauma Jess has endured, and growing as an artist. Our cast is very collaborative with each other, so it makes the process exceptionally rewarding. I am stoked to share the vulnerability, wit and healing that Lindsey Ferrentino crafted!"

Performances will take place in the LU Studio Theatre between the Dishman Art Museum and the Jimmy Simmons Music Building on campus. Tickets range from $7 to $15, and can be purchased at https://http://www.lamar.edu/lutdtix.