This piercing character study uses a love triangle to meditate on the themes of infidelity, friendship and loyalty. The plot is sometimes told out of chronological order, with the first scene taking place after an affair has ended in 1977 and the final scene ending before the affair begins in 1968. The innovative structure exposes the characters’ hidden emotions.
“The audience will be very engaged by the complicated way the story is revealed. It’s an intriguing puzzle they get to trace,” said director and theatre arts professor Russell Vandenbroucke. “Humans love to solve problems and here we sometimes get to do so ahead of the characters. We have a great aptitude and curiosity for exploring challenges and I think this play taps into that.”
Critics and audiences made “Betrayal” one of London’s most popular plays when it premiered in 1978. It won several major awards, including the Olivier Award for Best New Play and the New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award.
Vandenbroucke said his team has worked hard to bring the show’s era and chronological twists and turns to life with creative lighting, set design and costumes. While the play takes place decades ago in England, its themes are universal.
“These are frail human beings like all of us, who stumble and fumble at times,” he said. “There remain truths for anyone trying to lead a satisfying life, which is all of us.”
“Betrayal” runs April 13-17 at 8 p.m. and April 17 at 3 p.m. in Thrust Theatre, 2314 S. Floyd St. Tickets are $8 for UofL students, $12 for other students and alumni, faculty, staff and seniors and $15 for general admission. Tickets available online here or at the Thrust Theatre Box office weekdays from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
