'Nickel and Dimed' changes perceptions

ALLENDALE, Mich. -- A stage adaptation of investigative reporter Barbara Ehrenreich's nonfiction bestseller "Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America" will be presented by Grand Valley State University for six performances in April.

Joan Holden’s dramatic version of the enlightening story about troubled economic times and the struggles of low-wage workers will be performed in the Louis Armstrong Theatre, Performing Arts Center, Allendale Campus on April 4, 5, 10, 11, 12 at 7:30 p.m. and April 6 at 2 p.m.

Ehrenreich’s book tells of her undercover work at low-wage jobs to learn about and expose the realities and frustrations of America’s working poor. The play draws details and research statistics from the book, has composites of characters and heavy use of both satire and humor to translate the story to the stage.

Penelope Notter, associate artistic director at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, is guest artistic director for Grand Valley’s production and thrilled to return to her roots, working with college students.

“My life has been changed by this play,” said Notter. “Reading the book in preparation for this play was a real eye-opener for me. It has also raised the conscience of the cast and I think it will have the same affect on the audience.”

Though the original book was written in 2002, the minimum wage figures and impossibility of making ends meet with only one low-wage job are as relevant as ever. Thinly veiled business names point fingers at some of the worst offenders, while the characters’ struggles are portrayed as a fate they accept.

“This may sound like a dry production, but it surely isn’t,” said Notter. “The ensemble cast has a real sense of ownership to the material and well-paced energy. The production also has many interesting technical aspects, such as the rotating 3-sided stage and rear projected scenes on big screens.”

Whitney Hershberger, a senior theatre student, skillfully portrays the lead character, Barbara. A supporting cast of a dozen students move deftly from one role to another, representing workers and management. Amanda Janke, also a senior theatre student, designed all the production’s costumes. Katrina Niemisto is production and stage manager. Al Sheffield and Paul Collins, Grand Valley faculty and staff member, designed set and lights respectively.

Tickets: $12 general admission, $10 seniors, alumni, faculty and staff, $6 all students, may be purchased at the LAT Box Office in the lobby of the Performing Arts Center, Mondays-Fridays, 12-5 p.m. and one hour prior to performance. For more information call (616) 331-2300. Tickets may also be purchased, with a service fee, through any startickets plus outlet, online at www.starticketsplus.com, or by calling (616) 222-4000 or (800) 585-3737.