Unreal City

Unreal City

North Greenville University Theatre

September 19-21 & 26-28, 2024

Unreal City was written by my husband, Michael, a composer, lyricist, and poet. After years of writing and two workshops, our show was invited to be produced by our alma mater, North Greenville University in Fall 2024.

Unreal City is based on The Wasteland by T.S. Eliot. Through thematically connected vignettes, this song cycle explores isolation, fragmentation, restoration, and community.

Director’s Note

Unreal City is the story of people trapped in their own isolation. In this show we witness fragments of their lives told through song vignettes. Even though each song gives us a glimpse of different stories, the stories of each character are tied together through their themes and arcs. All of these characters are hurt people in broken, fragmented relationships. We see fathers who hurt, husbands who cheat, lovers who lie. It is not until each character can reckon with their own faults and accept the help from community around them that they can move out of their isolation and into a hopeful future.

If you see yourself in one of these stories, my challenge to you is to seek community and embrace Love, Mercy, Self-control, and may that lead you to the Peace that only our Lord, Jesus Christ can give. A peace which surpasses understanding. Shantih.

To inquire about staging a production of Unreal City, contact Michael Thomas at mat69104@gmail.com.

Photo Credit: Seth Atkins

The Playmakers

Composer/Lyricist Michael Thomas

Music Director Ruby Lee

Technical Director David Vierow

Stage Manager Kara Hayes

Set Designer Bess Park

Lighting Designer Ethan Hollinger

Sound Designer TJ Hills

Costume Designer Cyndi Lohrmann