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CORVALLIS, Ore. – Oregon State University Theatre’s 2017-2018 season, In the Public Eye, continues with the absurdist political comedy “Rhinoceros,” in March.

Performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. March 1, 2 and 3 and March 9 and 10, and at 2 p.m. March 11 in the Withycombe Hall main stage theatre, 2901 S.W. Campus Way, Corvallis.

Eugène Ionesco’s 1959 exploration of the spread of fascism has been re-imagined for the 21^st century in a new adaptation by Wes Savick. The funny, fast-paced and terrifying script tells the story of a small town whose residents are transforming into rhinoceroses.

Berenger, a flustered everyman, attempts to resist the metamorphosis, becoming increasingly paranoid as those around him are swept up in the tide of change. The production emphasizes the timely issues explored in the script.

“This era has been characterized by a rash and sudden descent from previous standards of decency,” said the play’s director, Ajai Tripathi, a 2007 OSU Theatre alumnus. “I think this play shows that even within such a predicament it is still possible to maintain one’s dignity, hold on to enlightened values, and resist the temptation to accept this degradation as normal.”

This cast features OSU students Daniel Bordenave as Logic Student/Old Man; Srimanyu Ganapathineedi as Mr. Shopkeeper/Fireman; Cole Haenggi as Stinger; Shawntae Harris as Café Owner, Fireman; Thomas McKean as Berenger; Max Morter as Logician; Nate Pereira as Lumpin; Bria Love Robertson as Lady With Cat and Mrs. Boeuf; Kyle Stockdall as Jean; Sarah Wagner as Waitress/Butterfly; and Wendy Zhang as Mrs. Shopkeeper and Old Woman.

Tickets are $12 for general admission; $10 for seniors; $8 for youth/students; and $5 for OSU students. They are available through the OSU Theatre Box Office at 541-737-2784 or online at http://bit.ly/1wgmTkJ. For group ticket sales or accommodations related to a disability, contact the box office.