Wayne State University's Bonstelle Theatre proudly presents The Adding Machine by Nobel Prize winning author Elmer Rice, opening March 1. Written in 1923, The Adding Machine is an American classic. One of the first expressionistic plays written by an American, the themes in The Adding Machine are still incredibly relevant to today's technologically advanced society. Written before the dawn of electronic computers, the play presented a frightening view of society's future. If technology continued its rapid advancement, the human worker would eventually become obsolete.

Rice dramatizes the story through the eyes of Mr. Zero. As the name would suggest, Mr. Zero is just that - a nobody. Having worked in the same exact position for over 25 years, Mr. Zero is replaced by a machine. His struggle to cope with the intimidating force of technology is the struggle of each of us. Zero's search for happiness in a dehumanized atmosphere is Rice's ironic way of depicting society. Are we just part of a machine, forever locked into predetermined roles we must play?

The Adding Machine has been produced several times over the years but seems to have found a stronger voice in recent times, since technology has become such a crucial part of our daily existence. Director of the Black Theatre Program, Jerry Cleveland, will direct the Bonstelle's talented cast. Cleveland is excited about the symbolism of the production. He explained that every aspect of the show reveals something symbolic. Be it colors, shapes or sizes, the audience will sense the technologically distorted view of society.

The Adding Machine plays at the Bonstelle Theatre March 1 - 3 and 8 - 10. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets range from $8-$10. Special discounts are available for groups of 15 or more. Student "rush" tickets are $7, available the day of the performance. For more information and tickets to The Adding Machine, call Wayne State University's Theatre Box Office at (313) 577-2960.