YSU theater to present love story, symposium

the vindicator

YOUNGSTOWN — “How His Bride Came to Abraham,” a modern-day tale set in violence-torn Lebanon, opens Thursday at Spotlight Arena Theater in Youngstown State University’s Bliss Hall.

The drama, staged by YSU Theater and directed by Dennis Henneman, is set in Israeli-occupied southern Lebanon. It centers on a wounded male Israeli soldier and a female Palestinian terrorist who forge a romantic relationship despite being enemies.

The audience is invited to remain for a post-play symposium discussion led by campus and community members. The playwright, Karen Sunde, will participate opening night and Friday.

Finding the answer

Sunde, of New York, is an actor-turned-playwright who has performed in 60 off-Broadway roles. “‘Abraham’ is for us all,” she has said about her play. “It is about going so deep into the heart of our enemy that we have no choice but to embrace him, and in that embrace is the answer to everything.”

Each symposium will last approximately 40 minutes and will include different panel members each night.

Seating for the play will be limited to 90 per night because of the stage set-up. Patrons are encouraged to make reservations by calling the box office at (330) 941-3105.

An opening night dinner is scheduled for 6 p.m. in Winslow’s Caf at the Butler Institute of American Art, across Wick Avenue. Reservations and advance payment are required. Call the box office.