By Juliet Fiozzo
The Theatre Department’s first production of the spring semester, “The Cake,” is directed by Angel Hammie and Caleb Eugley. “The Cake” will start March 3 at 7:30 p.m. in the Hartman Theatre, in the John Myers Building. Following shows will be Mar. 4 and 5 at 7:30 p.m. and March 6 at 2 pm.
Student director Caleb Eugley has anticipated and planned for this play for three years. After spending a long time trying to find an outlet and support for the show, the Theater Department has finally given him the chance to make it happen as a student director. Eugley stated there was full support of his proposal and for the themes within the play.
This is his first time directing a department production, but he has experience directing for the College Theatre Association, community theater and independent theater.
“The Theatre Department’s current theme of this season is community,” Eugley said. “This production is different from others by how it shines a light of LGBTQIA people, and that light is very truthful. It is realistic. It is not stereotyped in any way, it is not exaggerated, and it is taken out of our society at this moment. It will provide a lot of conversation after seeing it.”
The plot follows Della, played by Riley McQuade, a conservative, Christian woman from North Carolina. She’s a legendary baker, a loving wife to her husband Tim, played by Sam Marsh, and deeply values her family. Her longtime friend Jen is like a daughter to her. When Jen comes back home from New York City, she introduces her fiancée Macy, played by Lydya Felix, to Della and asks her to bake them a wedding cake. Making a cake for a same-sex couple forces Della to question her morality and her love for her dear friend Jen.
The spark in Jen and Macy’s relationship makes Della want a more intimate relationship with Tim again. The play addresses whether it is possible to be both Christian and to support the LGBTQIA community.
Eugley informs the audience to expect comedy, a heavy undertone and tear-jerking, heartfelt moments.
“I am most proud of all of the student work that has gone into this production,” Eugley said. “This is an entirely student-led production, which has been wonderful. There are student directors, student designers and student cast. The work that we are bringing to this production is so phenomenal. The actors are bringing their absolute A-game. I am proud that this is a student-led production.”
Cast member Miranda Velez, who plays Jen, is equally proud of the student-led production, “both the directors are super enthusiastic. I am extremely excited about the message of the play.”
Eugley and Hammie are hoping “The Cake” will help viewers think differently about the LGBTQIA community and to be more open-minded. They recognize that change takes time and that this is evident in the events of the production.
“It gives a good starting point for those who may be thinking more traditionally or conservatively,” Eugley said. “It’s more about the heart and how people love each other. Love thy neighbor.”
General Admission is $8 and $3 for Student Association members. Tickets can be purchased online at tickets.plattsburgh.edu.
