UNITY THEATRE’S ‘BEN BUTLER’ OPENS THIS WEEKEND
(courtesy Scott Hill, Brenham Portrait Gallery)
Unity Theatre in Brenham returns to the stage this weekend with its first show since the fall.
Ben Butler, a historical and comedic drama by Richard Strand, will play on the Main Stage from tomorrow (Thursday) through May 16th.
Unity Theatre Executive Artistic Director Kate Revnell-Smith said the theatre is excited to get back to performances after several months away.
(courtesy Scott Hill, Brenham Portrait Gallery)
The story takes place in the middle of the Civil War, 1861 at Virginia’s Union-held Fort Monroe under the command of General Benjamin Butler. When three escaped slaves show up seeking sanctuary, General Butler is faced with a moral dilemma – follow the letter of the law and return the escapees back to the Confederacy, or make a game-changing move that could alter the course of US history.
Revnell-Smith said while the production features several lighthearted moments, it also carries an important message of equality.
In order to accommodate social distancing guidelines, seating will be limited to about 50 people out of a capacity of roughly 165. Masks will be required for all audience members, including during the performance, but Revnell-Smith hopes this will be the last time that masks will be required.
(courtesy Scott Hill, Brenham Portrait Gallery)
An announcement is also forthcoming on the lineup for the next season of performances at Unity Theatre. Revnell-Smith expects that announcement will be made in June.
Tickets are $27, with a reduced price of $15 for students. Tickets are available by calling the box office at 979-830-8358, or by emailing tickets@unitybrenham.org. To learn more, visit https://unitybrenham.org.