Ohio Northern University's Freed Center for the Performing Arts presents "A Look at Life in America," a selection of four one-act plays as directed by ONU student directors.

"A Look at Life in America" begins Wednesday, Feb. 6, with a pre-show discussion at 7:15 p.m. and performance at 8 p.m. Subsequent performances are scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 7, and Friday, Feb. 8, at 8 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 9, at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; and Sunday, Feb. 10, at 2 p.m. All performances will be held in Stambaugh Studio Theatre and will feature all four plays.

"Four of the most capable, advanced students in the theatre program will be trying their hand at directing for the main stage for the first time," explains Joan Robbins, a theatre lecturer in Northern's communication arts department.

"These four plays showcase a good deal of variety and an exciting range of theatre that explores contemporary issues and themes relevant to life in America today," Robbins continues.

Set in the waiting room of a plastic surgeon's office, Madeleine George's "The Most Massive Woman Wins" examines factors that influence female self-esteem and body image in a surprisingly upbeat and empowering way. It will be directed by Mary Elsey, a senior communication arts and literature major from Uniontown, Ohio.

A dark political satire and absurdist comedy, William Seebring's "The Original Last Wish Baby" examines popular culture and the role of the media in American life. It will be directed by Dana Ellison, a senior communication arts major from Lewis Center, Ohio.

A farcical spoof about sexual identity and psychology, Christopher Durang's "'dentity Crisis" examines the nature of truth, sanity and reality and the notion that people are not necessarily who they seem to be. It will be directed by Brandon Price, a senior psychology, theatre and theatre production major from Tiffin, Ohio.

A universal yet surreal courtroom drama, John Guare's "Woman at a Threshold Beckoning" serves as a beautiful attempt to spiritually understand and come to peace with the atrocity of Sept. 11. It will be directed by Lindsay Esser, a senior communication arts major from West Liberty, Ohio.

"Because each play has its own cast, these performances involve an unusually large company. It's a great chance to see many of the finest actors at ONU in one place," Robbins adds.

Tickets are $15 for general admission, $12 for students and seniors, and $9 for children. The Freed Center box office is open Monday through Friday from noon to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Phone orders are accepted with MasterCard, VISA or Discover by calling (419) 772-1900.