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‘Dead Man’s Cell Phone’ rings relatable with audiences

The theatre department’s called upon all Bradley students and community members to watch their spring play, “Dead Man’s Cell Phone,” as the cast made their debut last night. The play, a dramedy, centers on a woman who answers the cell phone of a dead man in a café and later lives vicariously through him in the rest of the show.

Junior public relations major Hannah Gustafson, who plays the character Hermia, said the play has a little something for everyone in the audience to enjoy.

“I think each generation that watches it will come away with different elements,” Gustafson said. “This show has a beautiful romantic scene but also a gunfight and so many witty laughs in between. There are some ridiculous lines and actions, but they are not always obvious. This play will really make you think, and do not be afraid to react to it.”

Freshman television arts major Jody Holtz, who plays a grieving mother named Mrs. Gottlieb, said the show will provide the audience with a personal take on the theater experience.

“This show is so relatable. Almost everyone has experienced grief, lost love, or even falling in love with the wrong people sometimes,” Holtz said. “It’s incredible to see situations so real and prevalent in our society today come alive on stage. The show will move you and provide you with a new perspective [on life].”

Crafting such an elaborate story wasn’t without hardship, according to both Holtz and Gustafson, who at first found it difficult to adapt to their characters’ situations.

“Hermia was particularly difficult because she is grieving, and as an actor, you want to draw from your own experiences but know where to draw a line,” Gustafson said. “Trying not to get too emotional was sometimes a struggle, but [so was] trying not to laugh when she talks about orgasms.”

As the only freshman in the cast, Holtz said the entire experience has been new and intimidating.

“I really struggled with making authentic choices for my character and grounding myself in the absurdity of this production,” Holtz said.

However, Holtz said she stayed persistent in finding an acting method that worked for her role.

“I studied this character through and through. I know Mrs. Gottlieb as well as I know myself,” Holtz said. “I had to just keep reminding myself that I was cast for a reason and that I have the potential to do great things with this role. I also have such incredible directors and a wonderful cast supporting me and guiding me every step of the way. Without their direction and constant encouragement, this role would have swallowed me whole.”

While the characters and plot are complex, Holtz said she believes it’s nothing the campus and community members aren’t ready for.

“It is heartbreaking, hilarious and ground-stopping,” Holtz said. “The commentary on technology, grief, love and relationships will resonate with the audience, just as it did with the cast when we first picked up our scripts.”

The show will run Feb. 22 through 25, and March 1 through 4. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets can be purchased in the box office at the Hartmann Center, and cost $5 with a BU ID.

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