‘Mr. 80%’ gives 100% humor

Audiences found themselves with a high percentage of laughter inside the Vonnie Borden Theatre as the theatre program presented its rendition of James Sherman's romantic comedy "Mr. 80%."

The play was directed by Megan Cleveland, a spring 2011 alumna, who has performed in several main stage shows for Southeastern. This was Cleveland's first time directing, and she believes it was wellreceived by audiences.

"I thought it went great," said Cleveland. "Every night was a little different, but that's the beauty of live theatre. I think the audience enjoyed it and that's all that matters."

The story of "Mr. 80%" revolves around a young man named Sam, played by Dante Bidwell, who works as part of a comedy team with his friend Jan, played by Mark Hoopes. The story opens as Sam is speaking with a young lawyer named Sharon, played by Kacie Barnes, who lives with medical resident Patricia, played by Ruth Pakunpanya. Sam is interested in rooming with the two girls due to the fact that the apartment is affordable, and a lot better than some of the other places he had visited.

However, Sharon only wishes to rent out the room to either women or a gay couple. Thus, in order to live in the apartment with Jan, they both must pretend to be gay lovers with one another. What seemed like a simple enough plan turns hectic for Sam when he discovers that he is beginning to fall in love with Sharon, but has to hide his feelings so his lie will not be discovered.

Though this was Cleveland's first time directing, her work was highly praised by her peers.

"I think Megan did a great job on her first play," said Chad Winters, instructor of acting and directing. "She should be proud of the work she did. Megan did a good job handling the humor and getting strong performances from her actors."

Along with Cleveland, this was also the first time ever for Bidwell to have a leading role in a play at Southeastern.

"It was my first lead role so I was very nervous, but I love being onstage," said Bidwell. "It was a different type of role than what I am used to, but it was fun and I really enjoyed it a lot."

The audiences' enthusiastic response motivated the actors even more while they performed onstage.

"The best part about it is when the audience is getting into it. It helps us on stage keep our energy up," said Bidwell.

Audiences enjoyed the play's opening night, laughing and rooting for Sam throughout the show in hopes he would win Sharon's heart in the end.

"I really enjoyed the play, the acting was good and I was constantly laughing throughout the play, which kept me entertained," said Samantha Mayeux, a senior majoring in nursing and psychology. "The love story was also cute. I was so happy for Sam and Sharon when they got back together at the end."