Radford University - Beehive Yearbook (Radford, VA)

Page 16 text:

Starring-John Amos Spring usually brings it the beast in students, out after months of hibernation from old man winter and his bone-chilling winds. So, instead of filling the warm air with their primal screams, students could live out their native urgings and still get a bit of culture when the Radford University Theater brought a bit of the primitive jungles to the stage with Eugene 0' Neill’s play, “The Emperor Jones.” Directed by Dr. James Hawes, the production was highlighted by a special performance. In keeping with the tradition of bringing a professional actor or actress to the school so that budding actors can perform with a professional, Hawes supplied a well-known actor to play the leading role. John Amos, best known for his roles as Kunte Kinte in “Roots and as ny V “Good Times,” graced the stage in Porterfield Theater. As the overthrown emperor who must flee from his people as well as his past, Amos was an asset to the play. His booming voice and hulking presence filled the stage like a rampaging bull. From beginning to end his acting capabilities were put to a test of endurance, which he carried off successfully. The play combined many things which helped to make it a visual success. Scenery, made with much care and planning, transformed a bare stage into the deep, dark jungles of the West Indies. Costumes and lighting effects further elevated the audience to a higher plane of participation. With so much visually seducing the audience, the production proved to be an evening worth remembering. ,’ostuming, elaborate scenery ind make-up as well as student alent added to the success of he spring theater presenta-ion, Eugene O’Nem’s The Smpcror Jones.” Information and Publications John Amos, well-known for his role in “Good Times”, displays his talent in the leading role of an emperor who must escape from his past as well as his people. 14 Student Life

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.• fait »nd Publications Eighty dancers joined together to raise $8,445 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Karen Lewis and MDA poster child Eric Gerende watch as RU students make a little magic for Jerry’s kids. Cindy Thomas (middle) enjoys a few laughs with her friends as they watch the crazy antics of the dancers. MDA Dance Marathon 13

Page 17 text:

During the performance of The Emperor Jones,” RU students had the opportunity to receive advice from television star John Amos of “Roots” fame. A group of RU students perform a dramatic scene deep within the “jungles” of the Porterfield stage. EmpcrorJones 15