UT's production of Michael Cristofer's "The Shadow Box" makes for a glorious afternoon, even though you'll find yourself wiping tears from your eyes.

The play follows the struggles of three terminally ill hospice patients and their loved ones. The stage is divided into three different sets, one belonging to each hospice patient. Each patient has their own mini-set, story and series of interviews even though they are all on stage at the same time.

The first patient, Joe (Michael Sullivan), is a middle-aged husband and father. Sullivan brought his character to life with his emotional-filled voice, eyes and posture. Melissa Recalde (Joe's wife Maggie) not only had cute costumes but also delivered her lines powerfully. The dialogue between the two was flawless. The son, Steve (Michael Bowman), provided a dose of comic relief.

Mark Hess (the second patient, Brian) delivered the most memorable lines of the play. Shaun Patrick Tubbs played Brian's partner Mark and showed exaggerated emotions without being overly dramatic. Beverly (Verity Branco), Brian's promiscuous ex-wife, was the best character. From the moment she waltzed onto stage in her tattered dress and fur coat, the audience was smitten. Branco begins as a comedic drunk and evolves into troubled individual.

The last patient, Felicity, was played by Kate Debuys, who featured great acting and excellent makeup. Felicity's daughter Agnes (Marlene Barnes) was the least appealing character. While Barnes did a great job, their story was my least favorite.

Even if you normally avoid drama, you'll enjoy "The Shadow Box." Both the acting and the script are theatrical touchdowns. If you're in the mood for an intense drama that will make you appreciate life, go see this play.

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