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Wilkes University Theatre Presents Androcles and the Lion Oct. 7-10

Wilkes University Theatre presents George Bernard Shaw’s Androcles and the Lion under the direction of Joseph Dawson, associate professor of theatre.

Performances are:

  • Oct. 7, 8 and 9 at 8 p.m.
  • Oct. 9 and 10 at 2 p.m.

All performances will be held at the Dorothy Dickson Darte Center for the Performing Arts. Admission is free for Wilkes students, faculty and staff. General admission is $10 with a $5 for senior citizens and students from other schools.

This classic retelling of a popular religious folktale presents the story of a meek tailor with the gift of talking to animals. Androcles is a Christian, steadfast in his faith despite persecution, slavery and his scolding wife. While on the run from Roman soldiers, Androcles stumbles across a wounded lion. Rather than run, he removes a thorn from its paw.

Captured by the Romans, Androcles exemplifies Christian charity and piety. He is patient with the guards, protective of his friends and ready to sacrifice himself for his beliefs. When Androcles is sent into the arena to be eaten by a lion, he is greeted by an old friend.

Androcles and the Lion, a centuries-old tale recounted as an example of mercy — on behalf of man and lion — is a play for audiences young and old.

Questions? Call the box office at 570-408-4540.

students in costume as the lion and androcles
Olivia Schanbacher as the Lion and Jack Flynn as Androcles.