This story is compiled from a variety of sources.

A powerful stage adaptation of Toni Morrison’s debut novel, “The Bluest Eye,” explores the destructive power of racism and the strength of a community attempting to embrace an era of change.

The UC Davis Department of Theatre and Dance presents Lydia R. Diamond’s dramatization of Morrison’s literary classic May 17-19 at 7 p.m. and on May 19 at 2 p.m. in Wright Hall’s Main Theatre.

“The Bluest Eye” centers on Pecola Breedlove, a young black girl growing up in the 1940’s, who wants nothing more than to be loved. Confronting turmoil at home, she prays for Shirley Temple’s blue eyes, believing their beauty is the only thing standing between her and the happiness of the white girls at school. 

Co-director Margaret Laurena Kemp, associate professor of theatre and dance, said. “This show will come to life on stage by melding the work of an African American writer and an application of South African puppetry. Granada Artist-in-Residence Spring 2018 Janni Younge, best known for her internationally acclaimed puppetry work, will co-direct the production. These approaches will underscore the myth and magical realism that is ingrained in the narrative as a path to unpacking the themes of race, class and gender that are the core of this work.” 

The show contains adult themes and situations, recommended for ages 16 and up.

General audience tickets are $18.50, faculty/staff tickets are $17 and students/seniors tickets are $12. Tickets may be purchased at the UC Davis Ticket Office, located on the north side of Aggie Stadium, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, by phone (530) 752-2471 during the same hours or online at theatredance.ucdavis.edu.

For information about future performances at the UC Davis College of Letters and Science’s Department of Theatre and Dance, visit theatredance.ucdavis.edu.

More information: http://arts.ucdavis.edu/event/bluest-eye