DEI * AFFIRMATIVE ACTION * MERIT BASED * FIXING DISCRIMINATION
These are terms used in determining which people are chosen for TV ads, company hiring, club memberships but it also is quite common for screening people for acceptance at schools and universities. Merit based only considers quantifiable abilities but, over the years, that has evolved into affirmative action defined as the inclusion of minority groups that is legally mandated. And THAT has pretty well evolved into diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) that is a voluntary strategy for accomplishing the same outcome. This “fairness” is the subject of the stage play, “Admissions”.
Sherri Mason played by Suzie Steinmeyer, is head of admissions of a prestigious New England prep school. Bill Mason, played by Tim Walsh, is the school’s headmaster. Together, they are committed to increasing diversity in the student body. Their ideals are compromised when Charlie, their bright white son, played by Justin Jarzonbek, is deferred from Yale University, while his best black friend, who is less qualified, is accepted.
The three Masons are forced to confront their positions and clash on their differing viewpoints. The tense and intense dialogs feel so real, this reviewer felt uncomfortable. So, hats off to the acting of this trio. Roberta, played by Elaine Carlson, kept Sherri grounded on her attitudes about race but also does add some charming comic relief to ease the tension.
The Mason family, making a happy toast, as they hit their 20% DEI goal.
This well-crafted and contemporary story by Joshua Harmon, is beautifully directed by Jeff Award nominee, Beth Wolf. The set design, by Bob Knuth, was just perfect.
The Citadel Theatre has another winner in “Admissions”. This neighborhood theater never fails to amaze me with their production choices, their actor selections, their professional presentations and affordable tickets.
“Admissions” plays until March 15 at Citadel Theatre, located at 300 S. Waukegan Rd., Lake Forest. See www.CitadelTheatre.org for dates, times, and future production information.