Arts students at William Woods celebrate production premiere of “Cheaper by the Dozen”
What happens when an efficiency engineer decides to test out his efficiency methods on running his household and twelve children? Giving a whole new meaning to “bringing work home,” the results are both hilarious and effective.
This is the story told through the newest William Woods student-run production, “Cheaper by the Dozen”, which premieres this week. Showings will take place in Cutlip Auditorium in the McNutt Campus Center at 7:30 p.m. on April 21-23 and an additional showing at 2 p.m. on April 23.
Set in present day, the story is told through the eyes of Anne, a beautiful and popular high school girl who is also one of 12 children in a large, rather unorthodox family. Her father, one of the great pioneers of industrial efficiency, decides to apply his corporate organization skills to his household, and may take it just a little too far.
From charts used to track household chores to appointing one of his kids as utilities officer, collecting levy fines from wasters of electricity, the kids are starting to become frustrated with their father’s bizarre tactics — no one more than Anne, whose social life is now being affected.
But what she doesn’t know is that there is a reason behind her father’s madness and a secret he is keeping from them all — he is battling a heart condition.
Written by Christopher Sergel and directed by William Woods University award-winning Artistic Director and Professor of Theatre, Joe Potter, the comical production — packed with hilarious, outlandish scenes and heartfelt moments — brings to the surface the value of family and what it means to see life through new eyes.
“Cheaper by the Dozen wraps our season up with a wonderful story about family, love, values and the importance of understanding, order and discipline in our lives,” says Potter.
With an amazing cast full of William Woods students — from theatre and fine arts majors to digital filmmaking and even equestrian science majors, the play will be bursting with talent from all ends.
Fulton community members of all ages and William Woods students alike are invited to attend the show. Tickets are available now at the box office or online.