Valencia Character Co Presents COUCH POTATOES 4/1- 4/5

The Valencia Character Company will present the world premiere of Couch Potatoes of the 22nd Century from April 1-5 in the Black Box Theater on Valencia Community College's East Campus. Curtain time is 7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday.

Written by Tampa playwright and well-known visual artist, Jeff Whipple, the play was the winning script from Valencia's 18th annual competition among Florida playwrights.

Couch Potatoes is a wacky satirical farce that takes place in a future where "utopia" consists of having one's brain implanted into a potato-like form, and existing on a couch watching television day and night. Hank and Bertha, the main characters, meet and fall in love, and with the help of an ensemble of funny, creative characters, discover that "utopia" may not be all it's cracked up to be.

Jeff Whipple is a three-time past winner of Valencia's play competition. His previously produces plays were Bitter in 1994, Tourist Trap in 1997, and Terrorism of Love in 2002.

Julia Gagne, Valencia's artistic director, will direct this world premiere, and Kristin Able, Valencia's technical director, designed the scenery and lighting for the production.

Valencia's East Campus is located at 701 N. Econlockhatchee Trail in Orlando. Seating in the Black Box Theater is extremely limited and reservations are strongly suggested. Latecomers will not be seated until intermission. Please be advised that this play contains language and themes that are not appropriate for children.

Ticket prices are $8 for general admission and $6 for students, seniors and Valencia staff and alumni. Admission is free for Valencia students. For reservations and further information, please call the Box Office at 407-582-2900. Tickets may also be purchased at www.redchairproject.com.