Of romance, time travel and publishing

Published or Revised February 21, 2011

A young publisher must choose between romance and friendship when his limited funds only allow for one manuscript's production – that of his friend or that of his lover. Paris Junior College's Drama Department will present the World War I-era play "The Violet Hour" starting Thursday, Feb. 24 at 7 p.m. The first-time publisher only has enough funding to publish one book. His lover Jessie has written a fascinating memoir and his best friend Denis has written one called "The Violet Hour." Denis needs the book to prove financial viability to the father of his girlfriend Rosamund. Jessie needs to be published before her short life expectancy runs out. Relationship complications ensue as a mysterious, paper-spewing machine gives glimpses of the future of the play's central characters. "This is a drama with comedic elements," said drama instructor William Walker. "The character Gidger provides comic relief by throwing things out of whack for everyone and displaying jealousy when he has to share his boss, the publisher." "It's a fun show," said Stephanie Goudy, who plays Rosamund. "It has a 'Twilight Zone' feeling, especially at the end. This is also a true ensemble, one piece won't work without the other and when we're not in class we've been working on it." "Our drama students have been here every evening from 6 to 9 p.m. working on the play," said Associate Dean of Communications and Fine Arts Beth Shelton. "There are four shows to chose from, and we hope the community will support their efforts." This play has adult language and situations. Dates and times for the drama include Feb. 24-26 at 7 p.m. and Feb. 27 at 2 p.m. For ticket information, call 903-782-0327.