The first theatrical production this semester is a satire about one of the United States’ most scandalous presidents. Nixon’s Nixon, written by Russell Lees, is a two-man play about a conversation between President Richard Nixon and his Secretary of State Henry Kissinger on the eve of Nixon’s resignation from the presidency.

The cast consists of only two actors. Sophomore Jason Shipps is set to play Richard Nixon and freshman Noah Hastings will play Henry Kissinger.

“Richard Nixon was the only president in history to resign from office,” Shipps said. “On the surface, he appeared to be a well-spoken, well-mannered person; however, that was not the case.”

The play is set the night before Nixon’s resignation. Since no one actually knows what was said in this meeting, the play introduces a theory about what could have been said.

“It’s a satirical look that’s peppered with facts,” Production Manager Patti Heiman said. “It brings to focus some of the worst features of Nixon’s career.”

Shipps says the play is educational but still entertaining. Even if someone doesn’t like politics or history, there is still a lot of humor and humanity.

Heiman encourages students to attend this production to see the unique approach taken by the two actors. Shipps and Hastings have conducted a lot of research to bring a real-life quality to the historical figures they are portraying.

“You can always do better when your actors are excited,” Heiman said.

Hastings spoke about the bond of the cast and crew over the past few weeks leading up to the premiere as this is his first play at Baker.

“Working with the cast and crew has been a ton of fun,” Hastings said. “I’ve really bonded with Jason Shipps.”

Nixon’s Nixon will run for four performances, starting at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 6, in Rice Auditorium. Performances will continue on Friday and Saturday at that same time. The final showing will be a matinee at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 9.