Theatre program bringing classic comedy to Memorial Hall
The Chadron State College theatre program is putting finishing touches on its upcoming production “The Importance of Being Earnest,” the classic comedy of manners written by Oscar Wilde in 1895.
The play will open in the Memorial Hall auditorium Thursday, April 14, and run through Sunday, April 17. Show times are 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday.
The play follows the romantic pursuits of John “Jack” Worthing and Algernon Moncrief, who attempt to woo Gwendolyn Fairfax and Cecily Cardew in an eccentric plot of misdirection, misunderstandings and mistaken identity.
The play’s director, Roger Mays, said Oscar Wilde’s wit and charm provide the undercurrent for the classic play. He describes it as a “classic family comedy,” suitable for all ages.
“This delightful comedy is often included in the literature curriculum and has proven a timeless favorite during the last century and a quarter, featuring great actors from Michael Chekhov to Dame Judi Dench,” Mays said.
The cast features senior Marty Lastovica of Omaha as Worthing and senior Shannon Smay of Sidney as Moncrief. Freshman Asha Martin of Scottsbluff plays Cardew and senior Erin Neal of Crawford is cast as Fairfax,
The other cast members are senior Amanda Pintore of Omaha as Miss Prism, senior Shalee Jones of Minatare as Lady Bracknell, sophomore James Safarik of Hyannis as the Rev. Chasuble and freshman Jesse Manke of Philip, S.D., doubling as Lane and Merriman.
Faculty member Scott Cavin designed the set and lighting. Senior HeatherAnn Hicks of Valentine and freshman Jayma Loghry of Sidney created all the turn-of-the-century props and furniture. Freshman Evan Torkelsen of San Leandro, Calif., and senior Mason Quinn of Cheyenne, Wyo., are serving as stage managers.
Tickets may be reserved by contacting the CSC box office at boxoffice@csc.edu or 308-432-6207.
Category: Campus News