Baltimore, MD - UMBC's Department of Theatre is proud to present Yerma, April 26 through May 7, 2000 in the UMBC Theatre. Written by Federico García Lorca, Spain's foremost twentieth century dramatist and poet, Yerma explores the theme of childlessness in a marriage and the tragedy that can emerge when societal expectations are fixed and inflexible.

Yerma, which premiered in Madrid in 1935, centers around the marriage of the title character and her husband Juan, who struggle with their relationship in the context of a repressive society. Though this work is rarely performed in the United States, it is generally considered to be Lorca's most beautiful work, "perhaps the most beautiful in all Spanish drama" according to critic Denis A. Klein.

The all-student production is structured like a collage of dreams linked with erotic love songs. Directed by Sam McCready, the work evokes surrealistic landscapes and haunting relationships between characters and their ideals. The form gives an opportunity for highly imaginative scenic designs by Elena Zlotescu and lighting by Terry Cobb. Richard McCready has written original music for the songs, which are sung in Spanish.

8 p.m. performances are scheduled for April 26, 28, 29, May 3-6, with 4 p.m. performances on April 27, 30, and May 7. Tickets are $10 for general admission, $8 for faculty/staff and $5 for seniors and students with ids. All proceeds from this production go to benefit the UMBC Theatre Scholarship Fund. For more information, or to make reservations, please call the Theatre box office at (410) 455-2476.
FOR MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY.