The Horrors of War come to the Balch Arena

"A Piece of My Heart", which continues its run at the Balch Arena Theater this weekend, is not for the weak hearted. The weighty script follows six idealistic women who volunteer to serve in Vietnam and fall into a world of death, drugs, and rock 'n' roll.

This powerful dramatic presentation, written by Shirley Lauro, and directed by Drama and Dance Department professor Sheridan Thomas, combines elements of both experimental and classical theater. Exceptional direction from Thomas keeps the audience at the edge of its seat and the script's affecting themes inspire activism in the audience.

"A Piece of My Heart" concerns itself with the idea that people are naively drawn into war with expectations of glory, but once stricken by its grim reality, become addicted to the sense of purpose that the war's horrors gives them. The play's na‹ve protagonists sign up to find glory in 'Nam and instead find unprecedented hardship and tragedy, only to return home as unappreciated "adrenaline junkies," searching for a connection to society.

The women go to war for different reasons. The privileged Vassar graduate wants a little warm weather, and the activist army-nurse thinks she's going to be assigned to Hawaii.

The production features freshman Kasey Collins as Martha, senior Lisa Birnbaum as Whitney, junior Stefanie Schussel as Sissy, sophomore Emi Norris as Leeann, freshman Jessica Bauman as Mary-Jo, and sophomore Jolanda Porter as Steele.

Perhaps the most difficult aspect of the show is to see the main characters fall into a cycle of self-destruction after the war as they seek refuge in booze, pot, and disreputable men. Fortunately, Thomas' production avoids falling into the theatrical trap of portraying tragedy as a poorly constructed over-dramatization.

The production's creative set and lighting design enhance the play greatly, adding to its professional caliber. Especially powerful is the scene in which a soldier who is a "double amputee" takes center stage. The poignant image of a handsome young soldier seemingly hanging in the air leaves the women of "Piece" struggling to process the scene that is before them. Eerie lighting illuminating the soldier's bare body and outstretched arm suggests the profound search for inner purpose that is so often associated with justifying warfare.

The production also boasts an excellent male cast. Each actor rises to the challenge of portraying multiple characters. Versatile performances were given by sophomore Nathan Todd, senior Taylor Shann, junior Nam Nguyen, and senior Jeffery Brea. The "men," as they are listed in the bulletin, take advantage of clever costume design to transform into several identities.

A talented cast, combined with loud sound effects and bold lighting, sincerely conveys to the audience the chaos of life during wartime. The actresses deliver impressive authentic performances as they lose all inhibition and scream, cry, and laugh the war away.

"A Piece of My Heart," shows itself to be a multifaceted production, equally capable of evoking laughter and tears. The play takes several unexpected turns, resulting in dialogue of race and gender equality and sexuality, which will shock (and perhaps provoke) even the most qualified viewer.

"A Piece of My Heart," which will be playing throughout the weekend, is well worth viewing. It is a production with a purpose, and it deserves a sound audience to absorb the energy of its message.