Oglethorpe University Theatre has announced its final show of the fall semester—”In the Red and Brown Water,” on stage Nov. 21 – 24. This poignant coming-of-age story tells the tale of a young track star who gives up her shot at fame to care for her ailing mother and must re-discover herself in the process.
A poetic tale of love, longing, family and friendship, “In the Red and Brown Water,” follows a young Black runner named Oya who who gives up her athletic scholarship and returns home after learning of her mother’s worsening health. Now, without the promise of stardom, she is left unmoored and directionless. Oya struggles to regain a sense of purpose and soon finds herself further adrift when two local men begin to vie for her affection.
Forced to confront so many new and daunting obstacles at once…who will Oya be when she emerges on the other side?
“This story is about a girl who tries to find a place of belonging after losing what seems like everything,” says Justis Searcy ’27, who plays Oya. “I know so many women I call friend, sis, and family who this is a reality for, and to be able to put it in such a beautiful light with people who look like me…it’s vulnerable and surreal.”
Oglethorpe University’s production of “In the Red and Brown Water” is guest-directed by award-winning actor and director January LaVoy. LaVoy is the recipient of the 2023 Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Lead Performer for her performance in the off-Broadway production of “Fires in the Mirror,” and brings years of on-stage expertise to her role.
Her unique creative vision and deep understanding of storytelling promise to elevate the production, offering audiences a rich and dynamic interpretation of this powerful play and students the opportunity to learn from a seasoned theatre professional.
“In the Red and Brown Water” is written by Tarell Alvin McCraney. He is best known for co-writing the Oscar-award-winning film “Moonlight,” based on a play he also wrote.
“In the Red and Brown Water” is on stage Nov. 21-24. General admission tickets ($20) are available here. Tickets are free for Oglethorpe students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Call the box office to reserve free tickets at 404-504-1074.
