Two locally produced plays opening this weekend tread on what is often contentious ground – people of principle on opposing sides of a central issue. Though they take different approaches, both “Keely and Du,” a drama about abortion, and “The Savannah Disputation,” a comedy about the strange boundaries between Christianity and Catholicism, show how even firmly held beliefs may call for a leap of faith.
Abortion drama “Kelly and Du” at Ensemble
Christy Gallo, in front, and Kitty Reel play the title roles in “Keely and Du.”“Keely and Du” is probably not a play to attend on a first date. But it is the sort of play that haunts everyone who sees it and fuels endless, passionate debates over midnight cups of coffee weeks later, according to producers. The Ensemble Theatre of Chattanooga will perform the play over the next two weekends.
Keely is a young woman who is pregnant because her ex stalked and raped her. Du is a nurse and member of an anti-abortion group that kidnaps Keely, handcuffs her to a bed and holds her prisoner until her baby is born. The play takes place in a basement but feels jam-packed with 11 characters, unexpected plot twists and a stunning surprise ending.
IF YOU GO¦ What: “Keely and Du.”¦ When: 7:30 p.m. today-Saturday, Aug. 14-16 and 21-23; 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 17 and 24.¦ Where: Ensemble Theatre of Chattanooga, 5600 Brainerd Road (inside Eastgate Town Center).¦ Admission: $15 adults, $10 students.¦ Phone: 423-602-8640.¦ Website: www.ensembletheatreofchattanooga.com.
The play is written by Jane Martin, a mystery author who has never revealed his or her true identity and never granted an interview. Ensemble producing partner Christy Gallo loves the mystery because it leaves the audience to question which relationships in the play were real, which were based on fear and who was right and wrong.