Home Official News Releases Drake theatre to explore sexual harassment in Mamet’s ‘Oleanna’

Drake theatre to explore sexual harassment in Mamet’s ‘Oleanna’

Drake University Theatre’s production of “Oleanna” will open at 8 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 3, in Studio 55 of the Harmon Fine Arts Center, 25th Street and Carpenter Avenue.

Performances also will be held at 8 p.m. on Dec. 4-5 and at 2 p.m. on Dec. 5-6.

Written by David Mamet and directed by Michael Rothmayer, associate professor and chair of Drake’s Department of Theatre Arts, “Oleanna” is a story of a power struggle between a university professor and a female student who accuses him of sexual harassment.

The play explores the two points of view, asking audience members to come to their own conclusions.

Premiering in 1992, “Oleanna” has continually captivated audiences by exploring such perennial issues as higher education, rape and sexual exploitation.

“The play is still as relevant today as it was in the nineties,” said Rothmayer, who added his own views of the play have changed through his journey from student to professor.

“As a student, I understood the points Carol made in the play about power, particularly as it relates to education,” Rothmayer said. “Now, as a professor, I have a more balanced view of the points both characters are trying to make.”

The play contains mature content not intended for children.

Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for students and senior citizens and $1 for those with a Drake ID. Tickets are available at the Drake Fine Arts Box Office and may be reserved in person or by calling 515-271-3841.