The Williston Theater presents
THE ELEPHANT MAN

by Bernard Pomerance

Directed by Jorge J. Rodríguez
Set & lighting design by Charles P. Raffetto
Costume design by Ashley E. Tyler

October 27, 28, and 29 at 7:00pm
October 29 at 2:00pm

Williston Northampton School
18 Payson Avenue
Easthampton, MA 01027

The Elephant Man by Bernard Pomerance is based on the life of Joseph Merrick, who lived in London during the latter part of the nineteenth century. A young man with an extremely rare skin and bone disorder that led to his alienation him from society, Merrick was exhibited to paying audiences at fair grounds and penny gaff theaters. He spent the last three years of his life at the London Hospital, under the care of Dr. Fredrick Treves. Merrick soon drew the attention of London's aristocracy, who frequented his abode to visit and shower him with gifts. But the intentions of his hosts and guests remained questionable until his death: Were the doctors and aristocrats showing true compassion and inclusion to Merrick? Or was it all an act to preserve Merrick as a curiosity and commodity from which they stood to gain fame and riches?