Tech's Backdoor Playhouse presents 'Somebody/Nobody,' with shows in April and May - News

Tech's Backdoor Playhouse presents 'Somebody/Nobody,' with shows in April and May

From Somebody/Nobody rehearsal, pictured left to right: left to right: Lolli - Lee McGouirk, Sheena - Abby Mynatt, Joe Don - Zeke Eckert
From Somebody/Nobody rehearsal, pictured left to right: Lee McGouirk ("Lolli"), Abby Mynatt ("Sheena") and Zeke Eckert ("Joe Don"). 

As nature turns green around us this spring, Tennessee Tech University’s Backdoor Playhouse is presenting a show about the grass being greener.

A sharp, witty comedy by renowned playwright Jane Martin, Somebody/Nobody will run April 24, 25, 26 at 7:30 p.m., with a Saturday matinee on April 26 at 2 p.m., and May 1, 2 and 3 at 7:30 p.m.

The play explores the themes of fame, identity and self-worth in this fast-paced, character-driven show. Sheena Keener, played by Abby Mynatt, is a teen idol tired of the spotlight, but her larger-than-life agent won’t let her fade away quietly. When Sheena crashes into the life of small-town Kansas native dreaming of fame Lolli, played by Lee McGouirk, the two embark on a whirlwind journey of self-discovery.

Along the way, they encounter an eccentric mix of characters, including Galaxy (Lily Cunningham), Joe Don (Zeke Eckert), Beverly (Chris Margraves), and the mysterious Stalker (Drew Coburn).

Jennifer Gallegos directs the production. A seasoned performer, director, choreographer and teacher with more than 30 years of experience, she is a graduate of The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City.

Gallegos has worked extensively in Florida, Oregon, and internationally, directing acclaimed productions such as Mary Poppins, The Lion King, and Beauty and the Beast at the National Theatre in Nicaragua. Since moving to Tennessee, she has embraced her work with the Backdoor Playhouse and continues to bring dynamic storytelling to the stage.

Tickets are available at the door. The cost is $15 each for general admission, $12 for senior citizens, $5 for students, and $5 for faculty and staff on the Thursday, May 1 performance only.

Somebody/Nobody is presented by special arrangement with Concord Theatricals ( www.concordtheatricals.com) on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. 

For more information, visit www.tntech.edu/bdph.