Dangerous diner

Theatre VCU’s latest show, a 1970s social commentary that still rings true today, premiered last weekend.

“When You Comin’ Back Red Ryder?” is a gripping drama that explores fears and secrets, while examining the social implications of war.

Teddy (Landon Nagel) is a Vietnam veteran, drug dealer and bully exhibiting violent and unpredictable behavior. He and his young girlfriend Cheryl (Meagan Adams) find themselves stranded in a forgotten New Mexico town outside a diner, after their car breaks down.

The workers in the diner are Stephen (Andrew Donnelly) the cook, known by his nickname Red Ryder; Angel (Caitlin Stafford), the sweet and innocent waitress; and their straight-laced boss, Clark (Rodney Clark).

On this particular morning, a quiet and classy couple, Richard (Anthony Santiago) and Clarisse (Erin Morgan), have stopped for breakfast at the diner.

Teddy’s twisted sense of humor and threats of violence terrorize all of the diner’s occupants. Teddy’s psychological tormenting brings out the longings and innermost secrets of the diner’s inhabitants.

The button-pushing experience leaves each of them stronger, giving them greater insight into themselves. Their madman tormentor strangely connects these lonely characters.

The set perfectly captures the very essence of the classic American icon that is the roadside diner. Costumes are causal but representative of a sleepy southwestern 1970s town.

“I think every last detail of the set and costumes really embody the message of the show. It all fit together perfectly,” said Jennifer Hackney, assistant scene designer.

Gary Hopper, assistant chair of Theatre VCU, directs the play.

First produced in 1973, the play was written by Mark Medoff, and was turned into a movie in 1979.

Even though it is from a different era and explores the implications of the Vietnam War, the play’s themes are still just as relevant as they were when it was created.

Performances of “When You Comin’ Back Red Ryder?” are Feb. 22-24 at 7:30 p.m. and Feb. 25 at 3:00 p.m. at the Raymond Hodges Theatre, W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts.

Ticket prices are $15 for general admission; seniors, VCU faculty and staff $12; VCU students with valid ID, $5.