TheaterUNI’s second show of the fall 2021 season is “The Fractured Mind of Eric Coble,” but unlike traditional performances, the show will not  be performed on a stage. The show instead will be distributed via podcast this Friday, Nov. 12 at 8 a.m.  

“The Fractured Mind of Eric Coble” is a series of five radio plays all originating from the playwright Eric Coble himself. Under the direction of Stephen Taft, 24 actors will give these characters life over the radio. Taft describes the five plays as “a parody of mythological creatures, a classic TV show, a well-known American tragedy or poking fun at academia or the world of theater.” 

A fun, boisterous show filled with comedic value can be broadcasted on demand in the form of a podcast, which is something new for TheatreUNI. “We were fortunate to collaborate with the Electronic Media folks in communications and recording these plays was a new experience for everyone involved,” Taft said.

 The new experience was thrust upon the department due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and TheatreUNI took it in stride, creating an entirely new theatrical experience for all. 

After the past year of the pandemic, Taft shared his joy for the new platforms the theatre could be presented in and looked forward to the theater returning home to Strayer-Wood Theatre. “TheatreUNI selected our 2020-21 season nearly a year ago not knowing what the status of the COVID-19 situation would be.” 

     The struggle of the pandemic forced TheatreUNI to find alternatives to share their art. Luckily, they were able to get creative, with their outdoor production of “A Small Pair of Feet in the Middle of the Sea,” and now with the radio production of “The Fractured Mind of Eric Coble.”

 “Spring semester we are scheduled to be back in Strayer-Wood Theatre and performing in front of a live audience,” Taft said. “We are very excited about that.” 

Taft also shared that this is his final show with TheatreUNI due to his retirement. He hopes that his final show at UNI will entertain and evoke laughter. “Given the world we’ve been living in we can all use a little laughter in our lives.” 

So, kick back, relax and enjoy the art and entertainment of TheatreUNI from the comfort of your own dorm room, apartment, home, or even car. Tickets are on sale on the UNItix website and are $12.25 for non-UNI students. UNI students can also get free tickets through UNItix box offices, which can be found GBPAC or the McLeod Center. 

After the purchase of a ticket, audiences will receive a link to the show and the playbill. The virtual show is available until Dec. 31.