'Machinal' takes stage at North Central College

"Machinal," a play inspired by the true story of Ruth Snyder, the first woman to be executed at Sing Sing Prison in 1928, takes the stage for four performances May 19-22 in North Central College's Meiley-Swallow Hall.

Written by American playwright and journalist Sophie Treadwell, the play is set in 20th-century New York. "Machinal" advances a dark vision about a woman's place in society and the consequences of not falling into step with the rhythm of the machine.

The drama follows the character of a "Young Woman" through nine episodes of her life. Resistant to the norms that society places on her, the protagonist marries her boss and has an affair with a younger man who makes her feel alive.

"In retelling the Young Woman's story in the 21st century, we want to create a vision of a world reminiscent of our own but with a twinge of uneasiness and terror," said director Laura Lodewyck, assistant professor of theater at North Central.

The play will be staged at 7:30 p.m. each day in Meiley-Swallow Hall, 31 E. Ellsworth St. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for students and senior citizens.

For details, call (630) 637-SHOW or visit northcentralcollege.edu/showtix. The performance contains adult material, including some violence not suitable for children.