Alpha Psi Omega, the honors theatre organization, presented the dramatic comedy “Regrets Only” this past Friday through Sunday at I.G. Greer Studio.

The play – originally written by Paul Rudnick – deals with gay rights issues and takes place around 2005, while President George W. Bush was still in office.

“It is topical and I think accessible via the humor, but it still manages to say something,” said Melanie Miller, director of the production, a senior at Appalachian State University and a member of Alpha Psi Omega.

The main characters in the play, a fashion designer that is part of New York’s elite, as well as his best friend and his father, are attempting to pass an amendment to legalize gay marriage.

This was an especially important topic to touch on for the performing students. Some of the intentions of the play were to broaden student’s horizons about theatre while bringing up important issues of today.

“[The production’s purpose was] not only to broaden horizons about theatre, but to take a comedic and personal look at homosexual and human rights,” said Luke Schaffer, stage manager and junior theatre arts major.

Alpha Psi Omega holds a play every year that is run completely by students.

“Regrets Only” was more financially reasonable than past productions, such as last year’s “The Odd Couple,” because the rights to perform the play were significantly cheaper.

The Department of Theatre and Dance helped with the production as well, contributing costumes and set pieces.

“This play supports not only gay marriage and homosexual equality but also basic human rights,” Schaffer said. “It also shows marriage in many different forms, and it should be a mistake or success that everyone is allowed to make.”

Story: JAY SALTON, Intern A&E Reporter