JOHNSON CITY — The Department of Theatre and Dance at East Tennessee State University will kick-off its 2019-20 season with the Samuel Beckett classic, “Waiting for Godot,” Oct. 3-6 in the Bud Frank Theatre.

Performances are Thursday – Saturday, Oct. 3-5, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 6, at 2 p.m. Doors open 30 minutes prior to show time.

The drama tells the story of Vladimir and Estragon, two vagabonds who meet at a tree in the middle of nowhere to wait for Godot, the man who will change everything, even though they have no idea when he is coming.

The duo becomes distracted when a man named Pozzo and his servant Lucky travel through. Over time, Vladimir and Estragon become unsure of where they are, why they are waiting, how much time has passed and, of course, the big question: will Godot actually arrive?

Nevertheless, they wait.

Appearing in the two title roles are ETSU students Ryan Leonard and Ben Patterson as Estragon and Vladimir, respectively. Rounding out the cast are Darrius Akridge, Ethan Harbin and Harry Harker.

ETSU faculty member Melissa Shafer is production director for “Waiting for Godot” with Katherine Weiss, chair of Literature and Language, as director/dramaturg. Joining them are Logan Carson, stage manager; Imani Green, costume crafts; Shelby Tyler, assistant stage manager; Claire Johnson, wardrobe supervisor; Hunter Thomas, wardrobe assistant; Gabe Felty, lighting technician; Madison Phillips, audio technician; and Alex Hennage, production assistant.

The creative team includes Beth Skinner, costume designer; and Zach Olsen, technical director; and features student designers Andrea Greer, set designer; and Matt Stevens, lighting designer.

Tickets are $5 for faculty, staff, students (with ID) and youth, and $10 general admission. To purchase tickets, visit www.etsu.edu/theatre, or for more information or to request special accommodations, call 423-439-6524.