"How I Learned to Drive" Expected to be a Moving Performance

Robin Boisseau, director of How I Learned to Drive and theater professor, fell in love with the play years ago and knew that one day she would want to put on its production. That notion was put into action in early September when auditions first began for the play. Boisseau credits the play’s controversial issues and theme of overcoming obstacles as reasoning for her wanting to direct the production, and commented on what she expected the audience to take back with them after viewing the performance.

“What I want the audience to get out this performance is that no obstacle or issue is too big to overcome and to be inspired by the characters’ drive and determination to conquer their problems.”

How I Learned to Drive was written by Paula Vogel and tackles subject matter that occurs in families, but goes unnoticed and unreported. Learning to drive is a metaphor used in the play to represent Lil’ Bit, one of the main characters, overcoming obstacles of rape and molestation within her family.

The message that the show conveys intrigued the actors and actresses, and sparked their views on the topics covered in the play. Ashley Saunders, a member of the female group chorus in the production, commented on her overall experience in the show.

“I’ve enjoyed participating in the play. As a society, we keep uncomfortable family matters hidden that need to be brought to the light. This play shows the complexity of child molestation.”

Dana Flowers, casted as Lil’ Bit in the play, also commented on her experiences with the production.

“It was very hard playing a character that was molested and it was even more difficult getting into character.  The play is about my character taking control, and hopefully the audience is moved by our performance.”

HU's theater department has had previous successes with its productions, including Dreamgirls, and is known for putting on dynamic and moving performances. Anticipation is high among students, faculty members, and Hampton-Roads residents, and actors and actresses are working hard to put on a good show.

The show runs Dec. 2-3 at Armstrong Hall Little Theater at 8 p.m., with a Sunday matinee on Dec. 4 at 3 p.m.  Admission is $10 general, $8 senior citizens, and $8 non-HU students.