AUTW Performs ‘The Man Who Came to Dinner’

On April 3 and 4, the Andrews University Theatre Wing (AUTW) performed “The Man Who Came to Dinner” in the Newbold Auditorium. The play is a classic American comedy by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart, first performed in 1939, and follows the outrageous antics of Sheridan Whiteside, a famous radio personality who, after slipping on ice outside a well-to-do Ohio family’s home, is forced to recuperate there—much to the hosts’ dismay. 

Though beloved for its wit and fast-paced humor, the play has sparked some modern critique for its dated portrayals and character tropes, particularly in its treatment of gender roles and stereotypes. The story includes eccentric guests, meddling schemes and absurd situations that turn the household upside down. 

The production was the result of months of dedication. 

“We have been working on the play since January,” shared Isaiah Scaffidi (sophomore, mechanical engineering and math), who directed the play. “We met three times a week and rehearsed every day the week before the performance from 7 to 11:30 p.m.” 

Despite a temporary postponement due to unforeseen circumstances, the team bounced back with energy and enthusiasm. 

“We packed the Buller Auditorium both Thursday evening and Friday afternoon,” Scaffidi said. “The audience greatly enjoyed the performance.”

Featuring a diverse cast of Andrews students, community members and children from the Ruth Murdoch Choir, the play created a vibrant, collaborative spirit. Bianca Loss (senior, education), a member of the cast, highlighted the energy of the performances. 

“Both nights, we got a great turnout,” she said. “Lots of laughter on night one and great applause on night two. The set, costumes and cast all came together well to make a memorable night of theater.”

Audience members echoed these sentiments. Lexie Dunham (senior, psychology), praised the show’s comedic timing and engaging characters. 

“It was a chaotic play in the best way,” she said. “Everyone did such a wonderful job with their parts, and I’m very pleased that I went!”

Nailea Soto (senior, global studies) also noted the strong performances and standout moments. 

“I thought the play was very witty,” she said. “Each actor brought something special to their role, and their interactions really brought the play to life. My favorite part was when Beverly played the piano—it surprised a lot of people, including me!”

From quick costume changes to props (including a sarcophagus), the production didn’t shy away from theatrical flair. 

“There were lots of elements,” Loss said, “but the cast handled it well, and the audience enjoyed it.”

While “The Man Who Came to Dinner” continues to entertain with its witty dialogue and eccentric characters, it also reflects the biases of its time. Much of the humor relies on outdated stereotypes and caricatures that reinforce sexism, classism and, at times, casual racism. 

“As director,” Scaffidi said, “I made sure to have open discussions with my cast whenever a certain scene was inappropriate and how we were going to go about making it more acceptable for an audience today.” 

He said that several lines deemed inappropriate were removed while still maintaining the plot of the play intact. 

“We all agreed we wanted to preserve the love of theater and not bring emphasis to any of these elements that may have been ‘humorous’ at the time but are insensitive today,” he said.

The AUTW’s production was mindful of these elements, but it is important for the audience to also be critical and mindful of the topics as they experience theater and engage carefully with the humor in these plays. 

As the curtain closed on this year’s performance, the cast and crew celebrated not only a successful show but the promise of future productions. 

“It was a great last show,” Loss said, reflecting on her last performance in light of her upcoming graduation. “I look forward to seeing what they accomplish next year!”