One of Tennessee Williams’ most popular plays, “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof”, is Theatre NDSU’s second production of the semester, opening Thursday at Walsh Studio Theater.

“Williams’ play asks the audience to ponder mortality, what living is worth and when and if it is OK to let go,” director Jessica Jung said of the play.

“Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” tells the story of the wealthy Pollitt family, focused specifically on Brick and his wife, Maggie. The family comes together to celebrate the restored health of the patriarch, Big Daddy.

An aged football star and the favored son of Big Daddy, Brick reverts to drinking out of grief for his best friend. As his alcoholism increases, Maggie tries harder to restore their dying relationship.

After spending more time with one another, the secrets and lies of the past affect the people in the present, and the family is forced to confront the reality of mortality.

To give the audience the ability to closely experience the family drama, the setting of the production is in the round. The cozy space offers only 80 seats surrounding Brick and Maggie’s bedroom, perfect for the familiar ambiance of the play.

The audience will be next to the action happening onstage.

“With this staging, I hoped to create an intimate version of Williams’ play,” Jung said.

An overarching theme of the production is Brick’s psyche. By creating the specific personal space, the audience will be able to experience “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” as if they were a part of the story themselves.

Theatre NDSU stays true to the original text, allowing this iconic play space to remain true to Williams’ original intention, yet keeping it open to interpretation.

“‘Cat on a Hot Tin Roof’ is an American classic that has entertained audiences since he 1950’s,” Jung said. “Come see a blast from the past that is still surprisingly relevant. Plus, it’s sexy.”

WHAT: Theatre NDSU: “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof”
WHEN: 7:30 p.m., December 3-5, 9-12
WHERE: Walsh Studio Theater
PRICE: Free for NDSU Students with a valid ID
ADDITIONAL INFO: Facebook event page, or call 701.231.7969