Sundown Collaborative Theatre continues their 15th season with Pulitzer Prize and
Tony Award winning show:
How I Learned To Drive
Written by Paula Vogel
Directed by Julia Bodiford
“Sometimes to tell a secret, you first have to teach a lesson.”
Paula Vogel’s groundbreaking and controversial play How I Learned to Drive tells the
story of a young girl who grows up in a complex and sexually abusive relationship with
her Uncle in 1960’s Maryland. The piece follows Li’l Bit from her adolescence to present
day as she reflects on her time with her Uncle Peck during their driving lessons as well
as the development of their toxic relationship. Li’l Bit is left with unresolved questions
that she tries to now process as an adult.
Despite first premiering in 1997, How I Learned To Drive remains more relevant than
ever. Paula Vogel’s flawless writing forces us to view each character as truly human
rather than in black and white terms. With empathy as a tool as well as a weapon, the
audience will be guided on her journey, seeing her experiences through her eyes.
With strategically placed comedic elements mixed in with this heartbreaking but
powerful piece, audiences will feel a full range of emotions and will certainly leave with
their own unanswered questions.
CONTENT ADVISORY
Please note that the play contains themes and topics including
sexual abuse/assault, coercion, grooming, and suicidal ideation.
This production is not recommended for a younger audience.
Julia Bodiford (Director) serves as Co-Artistic Director of Sundown Collaborative
Theatre. She has directed several pieces within the company, such as The Pillowman
and Woman in Black. She also serves as an intern at Circle Theatre and acted as
Assistant Director for their production of An Empty Plate In The Cafe Du Grand Boeuf.
She is set to direct Theatre Denton’s production of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof in February
2023.
How I Learned to Drive is a play that forces us to look at a very real problem with
compassion and empathy, avoiding stereotype and cliche to instead show us something
true and human. I’m grateful to be working on such a timeless classic with such talented
and dedicated artists.” -Matthew Eitzen, Uncle Peck
“Written 25 years ago, How I Learned To Drive remains just as relevant today. When the
play debuted in 1997 the topic of sexual abuse was not being as widely or openly
discussed in society as it is now. Today’s audiences are more prepared to engage with
the subject in a thoughtful and reflective way. Li’l Bit’s story invites audiences to push
beyond their current understanding of this complex issue, and asks them to examine the
impact of generational trauma, family, and forgiveness.” -Taylor Reed, Li’l Bit
DECEMBER 9TH-11TH AND 16TH-18TH
FRI AND SAT PERFORMANCES @ 8PM
SUN PERFORMANCES @ 3PM
(Friday, December 16th is our understudy performance)
Live at the NCTC Black Box Theatre
Address:
318 E HICKORY, DENTON TX
Tickets are $15 for the general public, $12 for seniors and students, $10 for Patreon
supporters.
Purchase tickets here:
How I Learned to Drive (square.site)
House will open 15 minutes before performances. Group prices are available; please
contact us for more information.
