Society, history and good old-fashioned murder will be explored this weekend by members of No Refund Theatre (NRT) in their version of the 1928 play Machinal at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday in 111 Forum.

Written by Sophie Treadwell, Machinal is a fictionalized account based on the life and trial of famous murderer Ruth Snyder. Snyder was convicted of killing her husband and put to death by electrocution on Jan. 12, 1928.

John Newman (junior-theatre) said the play is a social commentary exemplified by stereotypical and exaggerated characters. He also said the play compares society to a machine that controls the characters, as indicated by the title.

Sarah Ameigh (junior-advertising and theatre) plays the role of Young Woman, the play's protagonist. Ameigh describes her character as a stereotypical 1920s housewife.

"[My character] is expected to behave a certain way and fulfill certain roles without much say," she said. "She definitely lacks control in her life."

Ameigh also said that, unlike a lot of NRT productions, Machinal is not comedic. She also said the character-driven play portrays the challenging of social norms surrounding the role of women in society.

Newman, in his directorial debut, added elements to the play to make it seem more "mechanical" and fantasy-driven.

He incorporated a carnival theme in the play, as well as painted masks worn by all of the characters except Young Woman. Newman said the fact that Young Woman does not wear a mask in the play indicates she is unique and unlike the other characters in the play.

"[The play] doesn't look real, but it shows so much that's true," he said.

Jacob Eckstein, who is a CAS 100A (Public Speaking) instructor in his first NRT performance, plays Young Woman's love interest. He said acting with a mask on can be a difficult undertaking.

"It's harder to act with a mask," he said. "It's a challenge, but it makes the weird behavior in the play seem more realistic and mechanical."

Bridgid Zvirblis (junior-communication arts and sciences) agreed that wearing a mask during the play is a new experience.

"It's strange because a lot of action happens with facial expressions," she said, adding that it's unique for actors because there's a barrier between them and audience.

Newman said everyone can understand the struggles the main character goes through.

"It's the feeling that everyone is out to get you," he said. "Everyone has definitely felt this way at some point; there's truth in it and it's easy to relate to."