Wilkes University Theatre presents “Violet,” a heartwarming and uplifting musical by Jeanine
Tesori and Brian Crawley.
Performances will be held at 8 p.m. on Nov. 18, 19, 20 and 21, and 2 p.m. on Nov. 20 and 21, at the Dorothy Dickson Darte Center for the Performing Arts.
Featuring a talented cast under the direction of Jon Liebetrau, Associate Professor of Theatre,
“Violet” is based on the short story “The Ugliest Pilgrim” by Doris Betts. It follows the journey
of a young disfigured woman who embarks on a long bus ride through the segregated
American South in 1964 from her farm in Spruce Pine, North Carolina, to Tulsa, Oklahoma, to
visit a televangelist she believes will heal her. On the way, she learns the real meaning of love,
courage, and inner beauty.
Using country, folk, bluegrass, blues, honky-tonk rock and gospel styles, Tesori (the composer
of “Fun Home,” “Thoroughly Modern Millie” and “Caroline”) has composed a score faithful
to Violet’s rural roots and simple faith.
Winner of the Drama Critics’ Circle Award and the Lucille Lortel Award for Best Musical, as well as a Tony nominee, this redemptive story will warm your spirit.
The cast includes Raven Wesley as Violet, Jahel Duran-Diaz as Flick, Jack Flynn as Monty, Angel
D’andria as Young Vi and Wilkes alumnus Carlos Candelario as Father. Kayleigh Evans, Rachel Kern, Jalani Williams, Aariyana Gould, Jay’na Johnson, Olivia Scarborough, Evan Miner, Sean Robinson, Olivia Schanbacher and Melodi Wheeler round out the cast. Kasey Karoll, Sami Uggla and Melodi Wheeler serve as stage managers.
Tickets are free for Wilkes students, faculty and staff, $15 for general admission and $10 for students and senior citizens. Reserve your tickets by calling the Box Office at 570-408-4540.
Purchase live-stream access by visiting www.wilkes.edu/theatre.
NOTE: This show includes adult language and subject matter.
