About the play: A boy uses his imagination to create a world of Vaudeville performances in order to try to make sense of his mother’s losing battle. He blends the things he sees and hears on the radio, from friends, his special education teacher, and others he meets even briefly to make a world he can control because he cannot control his mother’s fight. The audience sees the world of Vaudeville as he does on occasion, but also tracks his story in what we consider reality.

TRIANGLE: The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire was a horrific, heart-breaking event in early twentieth century America. It was the worst workplace disaster until 9/11. Fifty thousand people marched in the streets of New York after the tragic fire. The repercussions of the needless and preventable deaths of the young women who agreed to a strike settlement after enduring fourteen weeks of bitter cold and hunger on the picket lines the previous winter galvanized public opinion.

The links of labor corruption, and industry abuse reverberate today as advantage is taken of those whose situations create a lack of choice.

The play focuses on a small group of women whose lives are impacted by the larger events of garment workers strike, and subsequent fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist factory. The relationship between the women uncloaks the influences of family, race, nationality, religion and social status, and education.

Cast members are doubled for a compelling argument about social justice, zealous politics and personal relationships. Prestigious society matrons, socialists, college students, and suffragists wove an agenda then tear at the fabric, that bound them in America. The play explores on a personal level, the friendships and private lives of the women.

* * *

TRIANGLE by Janet Schlapkohl
October 7 and 8 at 7:00 PM
3418 Osage SW, Iowa City

Combined Efforts Theatre presents a unique Immersion Event. The performance places the audience members in the midst of the action on the streets and in a shirtwaist factory of 1911 New York City. This special event celebrates the lives of the young women of the TRIANGLE.

Tickets available at the door -$8.00 ($5.00 for audience members arriving in period costume) or reserve by calling 319-354-3369.