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Actors take on 'Graveyard'

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By JOYCE McKENZIE

jmckenzie@tampatrib.com

Published: November 4, 2009

TAMPA - A production that earned its playwright what many consider one of the world's largest student literary prizes is about to debut in Florida on stage at Tampa Bay Tech.

Opening at 7:30 p.m. today in a dinner-theater venue is "Elephant's Graveyard," a play written by George Brant, a recent graduate of the James A. Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas in Austin. The play earned Brant the 2008 Keene Prize for Literature and a $50,000 award.

In "Elephant's Graveyard" Brant reconstructs the September 1916 true-life story of Mary, an elephant in the Sparks Circus in Erwin, Tenn. Mary killed her handler, who had abused the 5-ton pachyderm after being unable to control her. The violent incident, which outraged the town's residents, ultimately led to Mary's lynching.

The one-act play consists of a 14-member cast, half of whom represent the townspeople and half the circus folks. It also depicts the stark contrast between the two.

Residents of the generally boring, dreary old town dress in dark, drab fabrics, and the circus clan flaunt their style in brightly colored outfits.

The story, presented in the form of an oral history, is told in monologues. There is no direct interaction among the characters.

Amanda Depin, director of the school's thespian troupe, said it's a play with a poignant message of America's deep-rooted raving for spectacle, violence and revenge. She hopes to show it at the University of South Florida's One-Act Ensemble in January.

"It's a hard piece for the kids, but it's a labor of love," she said.

Senior Trevor Campbell, who plays the role of the circus ringleader, calls his part "complex."

"I like it because it's a change from the norm," he said.

Glenn Obrero, also a senior, is cast as the elephant trainer.

"It's hard for me because I'm so used to playing funny roles. I like it though," he said.

Jeff Wingo was selected to portray the clown.

"I like my role because I'm like myself, but towards the end of the play you'll find my character is more emotional," said Wingo, a senior. "Because you can't feed off one another, it makes it challenging. I like it."

IF YOU GO

WHAT: "Elephant's Graveyard"

WHEN: 7:30 p.m. today, Thursday and Friday

WHERE: Tampa Bay Technical High School, 6410 Orient Road, Tampa

COST: Tickets for the dinner and play are $13 for students and $15 for adults. Tickets for the play only are $7 for students and $8 for adults.

INFORMATION: Amanda Depin, (813) 810-0382

Reporter Joyce McKenzie can be reached at (813) 731-8026.

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