Wittenberg University students are more than just the stars of the next Theatre and Dance Department stage production. Roxie Patton, class of 2008 from Wellston, Ohio, steps into the director's chair for Fat Pig, which is scheduled for performances at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Feb. 8-9, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 10, in Blair Hall.

Fat Pig chronicles the story of Tom, a man who falls in love with Helen, a plus-sized woman. After taking criticism from his friends, Tom must decide what is more important: society's ideals about body type or his feelings for Helen.

"The [play] is written by Neil LaBute, who is one of the greatest contemporary playwrights in my opinion," Patton said. "The script is absolutely amazing, as is the cast."

The cast includes Collin Wenzell, class of 2010 from Leawood, Kan., as Tom; April Smith, class of 2011 from Springfield, Ohio, as Helen; school of community education student Ben Turner from Springfield as Carter; and junior Jordan Davis, class of 2009 from Maineville, Ohio, as Jeannie.

In addition, Rayna Long, class of 2008 from Payne, Ohio, serves as stage manager, and Brien Sewell, class of 2009 from Greenville, Ohio, serves as the lighting designer.

Patton is no stranger to the issue of body image, as she was recently featured on MTV's reality series True Life. An episode titled "I'm Happy to be Fat" tells Patton's story as she spreads awareness about acceptance of people who are overweight. During filming, Patton successfully founded a campus organization called the Body Beautiful Project, which now receives funding from Student Senate and includes more than 20 members.

LaBute also wrote The Shape of Things, produced last year by Wittenberg's Theatre and Dance Department.

"Fat Pig is a comedy with a message that I really think everyone will enjoy," Patton said.

Tickets are free and may be picked up at the Blair Hall box office one hour before each performance.