Valdosta, GA – Theatre Guild Valdosta is set to open its latest production, “She Kills Monsters,” a play that explores the world of Dungeons & Dragons, at The Dosta Playhouse this week. The show, which combines theatre and gaming, runs from Thursday, October 1, through Saturday, October 3, with an additional matinee on Sunday, October 4, and continues the following week from October 8-10. Dean Poling, The Valdosta Daily Times, reported on the production.
The play, set in the 1990s, centers on Agnes Evans as she navigates both the real world and a fantasy realm following the death of her teenage sister, Tilly. When Agnes discovers Tilly’s Dungeons & Dragons notebook, she embarks on an "action-packed adventure" in her sister's imaginary world, according to the Theatre Guild Valdosta synopsis. This "high-octane dramatic comedy" features homicidal fairies, nasty ogres, and '90s pop culture, offering "a heart-pounding homage to the geek and warrior within us all," the synopsis stated.
Gracie Tinsley, who plays the lead character of Agnes, is described as living "in the best of both worlds" by Dean Poling. Tinsley, who recently performed in the Guild’s “Matilda,” has discovered a passion for theatre and also enjoys playing Dungeons & Dragons. Her character, Agnes, serves as a bridge between the real and fantasy elements of the story.
The production also allows Bryan Layton, the show director, to merge his own passions for theatre and Dungeons & Dragons. The Dungeons & Dragons books seen on stage, specifically those shelved in the scene set in The Raven’s Loft gaming shop, are Layton's personal collection. Layton told Dean Poling that he began playing D&D as a child in 1978, drawn in by friends, miniature figurines, and the unique dice. He recalled playing an advanced D&D role-playing game called “White Plume Mountain,” where his character was killed within minutes of starting. This initial setback did not deter him, as he stated he continues to play Dungeons & Dragons, sometimes as often as five nights a week, mixing live play with online gaming.
Layton is also an active participant in the local theatre scene, often taking on roles or directing Theatre Guild productions. He also leads theatre productions at Valdosta Middle School. For the past six weeks, Layton has guided a cast composed of both local newcomers and veteran performers from Theatre Guild Valdosta through playwright Qui Nguyen's narrative.
Theatre Guild Valdosta’s production of “She Kills Monsters” will be staged at The Dosta Playhouse, located at 122 N. Ashley St. Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Oct. 1-3; a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday, Oct. 4; and again at 7:30 p.m. from Oct. 8-10. The Theatre Guild advises that the show is recommended for mature audiences due to colorful language and adult themes. Further information and reservations can be obtained by visiting www.TheatreGuildValdosta.com, emailing [email protected], or calling (229) 247-8243.
