'Clueless' meets medieval Italy when the Blinn-Bryan Theatre Troupe brings Chiara Atik's 'Poor Clare' to the stage

Performances run Oct. 17-20 at the Blinn-Bryan Campus Student Center

October 7, 2024

The surprising story of St. Clare of Assisi gets a modern twist when the Blinn-Bryan Theatre Troupe (BBTT) brings Chiara Atik’s “Poor Clare” to the stage to begin its 2024-25 season.

“Think 13 ^th century Italy meets ‘Clueless’ and the Kardashians,” director and Theatre Arts Instructor Evleen Nasir said. “It’s a dark comedy that tells the story of St. Clare of Assisi and how she gave up her life of wealth and took a vow of extreme poverty. I really hope the audience connects with what it means to make sacrifices, not just for other people, but for an ideal.”

Set in medieval Italy, young Clare has it all – money, beauty, and a wealthy suitor. However, she’s ready to give it all up when she meets Francis, who opens her eyes to a whole new world in this modern interpretation of St. Clare of Assisi’s journey from a life of privilege to one of compassion and generosity.

“She’s a bubbly, ambitious young girl just trying to figure out her place in the world,” said Chrissy Hockensmith, who plays Clare. “To prepare for the role, I’ve really enjoyed researching Clare as a historical figure to learn more about her philosophy and what motivated her. The play tackles a lot of our current issues and I’m just excited to share that with the audience.”

Other cast members include Joy Falkenberg as Peppa, Alex Sherwood as Alma, Ashley Wienecke as Beatrice, Matthew Richars as the Beggar/the Poor, Josh Bowling as Francis, Mackenzie Owen as Ortolana, and Madison Bailey as Servant Woman/Understudy.

Production team members are David Gipson, Lighting Designer; Karenza McRae, Stage Manager; Nate Baumann, Assistant Stage Manager; Anamarie Walker, Costume and Wardrobe Supervisor; Jordan Ingram, Sound Design and Operator; Jazmin Kittle, Properties; Matthew Burhus, Scenic Crew; Lizzete Velez, House Manager; and Carter Crisp, Publicity/Archivist.

“’I hope people leave the theatre inspired to make an impact in their own community,” Nasir said.

Performances run at the Blinn-Bryan Student Center (Building F,  map) Thursday through Saturday, Oct. 17-19, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 20, at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at  www.blinn.edu/boxoffice.

“Poor Clare” contains mature language and is suitable for ages 17 and up.

Following the opening-night performance on Thursday, Oct. 17, audience members are invited to participate in an interactive “Talk-Back” event, featuring the cast, crew, and local partners.

The Troupe will continue its season with December performances of the musical “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” and the plays “The Half-Life of Marie Curie” and “The Laramie Project” in the spring 2025.

To learn more about the BBTT’s season, contact Greg Wise at  [email protected].