Miami University’s “Gruesome Playground Injuries” Earns 4 Star LCT Rating

Ryan Knapper and Mika Clifford
Ryan Knapper and Mika Clifford

Panelists for the League of Cincinnati Theatres (LCT) have recognized the Miami University Theatre Department’s production of Gruesome Playground Injuries with a 4 Star Rating. The play follows the characters of Kayleen and Doug, who meet as eight-year-olds in a school nurse’s office, beginning a lifelong intimacy revealed through the physical and emotional injuries they sustain over 30 years

Panelists recommended the production as “One of the best college productions I have seen…a haunting mixture of humor and tragic elements written with a fresh voice.” Ryan Knapper, as Doug, was commended as “outstanding, detailed, powerful, amusing, and believable”, while Mika Clifford, as Kayleen, was also praised for her excellent performance in a demanding role: “She was able to get the audience to join her on her journey throughout the play.”

League of Cincinnati Theatre panelists evaluate productions on a 5 star scale and recommend shows at either a 4 star or 5 star level. Nominations for LCT awards will be determined and announced at the end of the season and winners awarded at the annual LCT gala in the spring.