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‘Under a Western Sky’ tells tale of violence, betrayal, pain

Five actors play the roles of 19 different characters in the true story of a Mexican American community cast into the national spotlight following a gang rape in the production of Under a Western Sky, opening at 8 p.m. Friday, April 28 in the Playwrights’ Theatre in Shasta Hall. Performances continue April 28-30 and May 3-7.

Manuel Pickett, professor of theatre and dance, directs the production of acclaimed Latina playwright Amparo Garcia-Crow’s memory play that serves as a cautionary tale of violence, betrayal and pain. In the aftermath of an illegal cockfight, a young girl is brutally raped and a Mexican American community in Texas becomes the focus of the country.

Each member of the cast plays multiple roles as the audience hears from the victim, her husband, the sheriff, and an amusing priest along with numerous witnesses to the crime. Characters in the play also include watercolorist Georgia O’Keefe, whose presence in the town creates a focal point of beauty in the midst of violence and danger.

Under a Western Sky opens Friday, April 28 at 8 p.m. and continues April 29 at 8 p.m. and April 30 at 2 p.m. Performances resume on May 3 at 6:30 p.m., May 4-6 at 8 p.m., and May 7 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 general, $12 students, faculty and staff, and $10 senior citizens and high school students.

For ticket information, call the Sacramento State Ticket Office at (916) 278-4323.