Red Rudisel and Janis Strickland star in EMU's "Intimate Apparel."

Photo courtesy of EMU Theatre

In a way, Lynn Nottage's award-winning stage drama "Intimate Apparel," now being staged at Eastern Michigan University, has much in common with the clothing signified by the play's title: Many find it beautiful, but only a few (relatively speaking) get to see it.

For the acclaimed show — which won the Outer Critics Circle Award for outstanding off-Broadway play, as well as the 2004 Steinberg New Play Award, given by The American Theatre Critics Association — has seemingly maintained a low profile, despite its critical success, and a Drama Desk Award-winning turn by Oscar-nominee (for "Doubt") Viola Davis in the off-Broadway production.

Set in 1905, "Intimate" tells the story of a talented black seamstress who has come to New York City in hopes of making her dreams come true — namely, to open a beauty salon for black women, and to find love. To this end, she stashes money while making beautiful undergarments for prostitutes, high society types, and everyone in between.

Theater professor Wallace Bridges is now directing EMU's production of "Apparel," and he answered a few questions about the show via email.

Q. What drew you to stage this play now?

A. I am commited to diversity at EMU Theatre, and this production allows for that. The show is a period piece that is relevant to the African American community. I also like the ragtime music aspect of the production. It has been a while since I have directed an intimate (small) production like this one, so it is nice to get back to my niche.

Q. What are the play's challenges for student actors?

A. One challenge is that Esther, the lead character, is onstage about 90 percent of the time. So, by opening, the actor has to learn twice as much as other actors. There are a couple of dialects, to one degree or the other. (EMU theater professor) Lee Stille is working with the actors on voice outside of rehearsal. Likewise, there is one song that requires piano playing by the actor. And (EMU musical theater professor) Howard Cass works with that actor outside of rehearsal. This extra effort should pay off well in production.

Q. Could you tell me about the look/design of the production?

A. As the title indicates, apparel is important in this production. The key costume pieces are the four corsets, designed by (EMU costume design professor) Melanie Schuessler, and worn by three of the actresses. Melanie is excited about building these and other costume pieces from 1905 New York. Along with the costumes, there is a lot of fabric onstage as Esther is a skilled seamstress. Set and lighting are fluid, allowing for actors to move seamlessly between scenes. The set allows for area acting, downplaying realism to a degree.

Jenn McKee is the entertainment digital journalist for AnnArbor.com. Reach her at jennmckee@annarbor.com or 734-623-2546, and follow her on Twitter @jennmckee.