‘Suddenly Last Summer’ showing at Empire Arts Center starting Feb. 1

The Empire Arts Center, Empire Theatre Company and McFarlane, Inc. will present the classic Tennesee Williams play, “Suddenly Last Summer,” Feb. 1-4 and 8-10.

Catherine is the sole witness to her cousin’s unbelievably shocking death. She is brought to a New Orleans garden to confront her family that is intensely interested in having her deny the lurid tale she has told.

Audiences can see this classic play up close with seating on the Empire’s stage. Bread pudding and café au lait will be available for purchase. The production contains content that is intended for mature audiences.

“It’s pretty incredible how a piece written in the 1950s can shine a light on very relevant topics in the present day,” said Tyler Hebert, director of the production. “’Suddenly Last Summer’ raises subjects surrounding mental health treatment and censorship, told through the lens of a young woman whose family will stop at nothing to cover up the truth.

“One of the questions I began to ask while working on this play was, ‘Why are we risking the wellbeing of someone just for another to uphold their status?’ Even when that person has done such awful things.”

Show dates include Feb. 1-3 and 8-10 at 7:30 p.m., and Feb. 4 at 2 p.m. Tickets for “Suddenly Last Summer” are on sale now, and can be purchased at empireartscenter.com or by phone at 701.746.5500. Adult, student and senior ticket options are available.