You have everything you need, but do you need everything you have?

Patience, by Canadian playwright Jason Sherman, attempts to answer this question during its run in the David Spinks Theatre, Jan. 21 through 23 at 8 p.m. nightly, with a matinee at 2 p.m. on Jan. 23.

The play tells the story of Reuben, a man who appears to have everything – a successful job and loving family – only to lose it all in a matter of days. Faced with tragedy and loss, Reuben plunges into a journey of self-discovery and exploration.

"Patience is a very surreal play," says Alan Johnson, drama major and director. "The scenes transition seamlessly between different locations and times. The spectacle comes from the characters. It's an elegant and simple story that gets audiences thinking."

Patience is Johnson's first opportunity to direct outside of class projects.

"TheatreXtra is a good opportunity for students to experiment with aspects of theatre they may not have tried before. Directing is not an easy thing to learn, but TheatreXtra provides great experience for first-time directors," says Johnson.

Tickets for Patience are available for $11 regular and $7 student/senior at the University Box Office or by calling 403-329-2616.