WILLIAMSBURG — William & Mary’s Department of Theatre, Speech, and Dance will present “By the Way, Meet Vera Stark” at Phi Betta Kappa Memorial Hall (PBK) in the Glenn Close Theatre from Feb. 29 to Mar. 3.
Written by the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lynn Nottage, the story deals with the complexities of race, fame, and identity, according to an announcement from William & Mary.
“By the Way, Meet Vera Stark” follows the story of the title character as she navigates what it means to be a Black actress in 1930s Hollywood. Described as having razor-sharp wit and an unyielding spirit, Vera challenges societal norms, striving to secure her place in an industry that often overlooks talented individuals like herself.
Returning home to direct this production is Williamsburg’s Tia James. James has a BFA from Virginia Commonwealth University and her MFA from NYU TISCH Graduate Acting Department. Currently, James has been focusing on Voice, Speech, Shakespeare, and Youth; acting, teaching, and directing.
“By the Way, Meet Vera Stark” will be performed at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and at 2 p.m. on Sunday.
Tickets are $18 for adults, $15 for military and William & Mary staff, $12 for students and children.
Tickets are free for William & Mary students with a presentation of a student ID. Tickets can be purchased online or in person at PBK on William & Mary’s campus the day of each performance beginning at 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. on Sunday.
