Feature: SPLIT IN THREE at Aurora Theatre

Ever seen a dramatic comedy that deals with two sisters that discover that they have a long lost biracial sister? Coincidentally, neither have I. Hence, why I could not be more excited to see the final show in Aurora Theatre's 21st season, SPLIT IN THREE, written by Atlanta's own, Daryl Lisa Fazio.

The play, directed by Aurora's associate artistic director Justin Anderson, originally made its world premiere at the Florida Repertory Theatre in 2015. More specifically, SPLIT IN THREE tells the story of two poor, white sisters, Nola and Nell, living together when the last school system in Mississippi is being desegregated. Nola and Nell start receiving strange phone calls, only to discover that they are from a half-sister, who is not only a Yankee but also mixed.

Though a different time period, the story can only be seen as relevant. In a time where racial slurs are the norm and transgenders are not allowed to have a bathroom preference, the show proves, once again, that art can impact society. It proves that art can start conversations, and create change for the better. This might be the part of the article when you start to wonder, how is this a topic made funny? Well, I asked the same question. Anderson explains that SPLIT IN THREE "breaks down the walls of reception by getting them [the audience] to laugh." The show is sharp and witty, finding a balance in the midst of a touchy subject.

Aurora Theatre, located in Gwinnett County, the most diverse county in the state, is the perfect place for the play to have its second showing. The company's season ticket holders will also be pleased to see Aurora favorites Courtney Patterson and Travis Smith cast, along with a stage full of new faces. The cast also includes Rhyn McLemore Saver, Falashay Pearson and Elijah Marcano with understudy roles given to Blake Burgess, Andrew Flynn and Daryl Lisa Fazio.

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SPLIT IN THREE is running at the Aurora Theatre from May 4 through May 28. Performances are Tuesday-Saturday at 8:00 p.m. and Saturday & Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $20-$55 and can be purchased online. A discounted matinee is available on May 24 at 10:00 a.m. Preview performances are available May 2 -3 at 8 p.m.

Aurora Theatre is located at 128 East Pike Street, Lawrenceville, Georgia, 30046. Free, covered, attached parking in the City of Lawrenceville Parking Deck.

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