Way-Off Broadway! 2009 Mar 21, 2009 (Sat) ~ 8
pm; David Spinks Theatre, U of L
2nd Annual Student Cabaret The entire show is produced, directed, choreographed and performed by U of L Musical Theatre
Society members. An opportunity to feature our very talented members in an intimate stage performance, and enjoy an evening of music, laughter, and jazz hands Tickets available at the door. Last year we sold out, so if you are interested in reserving a ticket, please e-mail (mts@uleth.ca) http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=57231001660&ref=nf
Edited by Tyler on 30 August 2010 at 8:39pm
__________________ "What have you done today to make you feel PROUD? (Proud, Heather Small)
http://www.uleth.ca/finearts/drama/events 2009 - 2010 SEASON
University of Lethbridge Box Office
(W510) located on Level 5
Mon - Fri 12:30 to 3:30pm & 1 hour prior to performance
Tickets may also be purchased by phone, (403)329 - 2616 with a Visa or MasterCard.
Cash, cheques or Interac are also accepted for ticket purchases.
HAY FEVER by Noel Coward Oct 20 - 24, 2009 ~ 8:00 pm University Theatre
A comedy of manners about a family whose theatrical excesses torment a group of unsuspecting visitors. The eccentric Blisses—Judith, a recently “retired” stage actress, David, a self-absorbed novelist, and their two children— live in a world where reality slides easily into fiction. The unfortunate weekend guests—a proper diplomat, shy flapper, athletic boxer, and fashionable sophisticate— are thrown into melodramatic scenes where their hosts profess emotions and react to situations that do not really exist! The resulting comedic chaos ends only when the tortured visitors tip-toe out the door. Considered by many to be cleverly constructed, wittily written, slightly cynical, and undeniably entertaining, the work contains all the elements that would help establish Coward’s reputation as a playwright. Director Gail Hanrahan http://www.uleth.ca/finearts/events/1531
~~~~~~
FESTEN by David Eldridge Nov 24 - 28, 2009 ~ 8 pm University Theatre
Helge is sixty and it’s a time of celebration. A time for the family to gather and smooth over the cracks left by the suicide of Linda, twin sister to Christian. As Helge’s eldest son, Christian raises the first toast. Confined within the family house, guests are rocked by revelations that pierce and destroy the veneer of middle-class respectability. Director Ron Chambers Note: Seating is limited. Very mature content. Material not suited for children under 18 years of age. http://www.uleth.ca/finearts/events/1532
~~~~~~
HAIR by Gerome Ragni and James Rado Feb 9-13, 2010 ~ 8 pm * University Theatre
A tribe of long-haired hippies in 1960s New York City celebrate their pacifist Bohemian lifestyle, vehemently condemn the Vietnam War, and embrace the sexual revolution. Through dance and song, Hair exposes the passions of a contentious era. Colourful and unforgettable, this rock musical has emerged as a cultural phenomenon that defined a generation. Director Gail Hanrahan, Musical Director Bente Hansen, Choreographer Lisa Doolittle
LIFE IS A DREAM by Pedro Calderón de la Barca Mar 23-27, 2010 ~ 8 pm University Theatre
Adapted by Adrian Mitchell and John Barton First performed in 1635, this is the story of a king who, on the advice of an astrologer, imprisons his infant son for fear the boy will grow up to rebel against him. Set in a fictional Poland, Calderón’s play explores illusion and reality, fate and free will, tyranny and kindness. Sometimes violent and dramatic, sometimes thoughtful and even comic, this masterful classic has entertained audiences the world over for nearly 400 years. Pedro Calderón de la Barca was a prominent playwright of Spain’s Golden Age. Director Richard Epp http://www.uleth.ca/finearts/events/1533
~~~~~~
TheatreXtra
The student-run TheatreXtra is undergoing an evolution this season. “There is no budget for TheatreXtra productions,” says David Gabert, TheatreXtra Artistic Director. “It forces students to economize on their productions without a reliance on money. This truly simulates a real-world environment for theatre.” Without a budget, the focus is on the quality of the performance, rather than the scope of the production. “Our season will push the boundaries of classical theatre,” he adds. Bold, exciting and entertaining, the TheatreXtra season continues to challenge students and move audiences.
~~~~~~
Lindsay Price Double Bill Oct. 1 - 3, 2009 ~ 8 pm
Directed by fourth-year Drama/Education student, Mark Ogle. An evening of light-hearted comedy, features two (Anne-Arcky and Body Body)one-act performances by playwright, Lindsay Price.
“Anne-Arcky is about a high school drama club putting on the play Anne of Green Gables, but from a backstage perspective,” says Ogle. The real drama begins to unfold behind the scenes in an amusing comedy of errors. “The play is utterly hilarious. I really enjoy comedies because I believe life is a comedy.”
Body Body combines tongue-in-cheek with a dose of reality. This one-act play tells the tale of a girl’s body image problems from a ridiculous angle. “Different actors will play different body parts,” Ogle reveals.
Positive Space by Ian McFarlane November 5 -7, 2009 ~ 8 pm (2pm Matinee Nov 7) David Spinks Theatre, University of Lethbridge
This collective creation devised by Ian McFarlane explores various aspects of theatre. Those involved have taken these different elements and created a unique performance. http://www.uleth.ca/finearts/events/1669
"Patience" By Jason Sherman January 21 - 23, 2010
David Spinks Theatre, University of Lethbridge
Directed and Proposed by Alan Johnson “You have everything you need, but do you need everything you have?” Patience by Canadian playwright Jason Sherman attempts to answer the question. 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.
"Unidentified Human Remains and the True Nature of Love" By Brad Fraser
March 4 - 6, 2010
~ 8pm nightly, 2pm matinee Mar. 6 David Spinks Theatre
Directed and Proposed by Shelley Scott
A group
of young Edmontonians builds relationships, find love and define
‘family’ beyond biological bonds. A Canadian classic, Unidentified
Human Remains twists dark themes with the strength of the human spirit.
“Unidentified Human Remains and the True Nature of Love was first produced for the playRites Festival at Alberta Theatre Projects in 1989. It has become a Canadian classic, with numerous productions across Canada, as well as in the U.S., Europe, and Japan. It was also produced as a film called Love and Human Remains,” says director Dr. Shelley Scott
This eerie play follows a group of young adults as they search for love and identity in an increasingly scary urban environment. “These characters are looking for connection. They are trying to construct a sense of 'family' and belonging that makes sense for them. While reviews have usually focused on the graphic sexuality and language and many find it shocking I was attracted by the warm heart at the centre of the play,"says Scott.
The age of the characters is the same as the actors playing them. “They share similar concerns and interests despite the fact the play was written 20 years ago." Another level of darkness emerges from the walls of the venue – the David Spinks Theatre. “The theatre is a small, dark space that adds another layer of creepiness. The action surrounds the audience, from the down on the floor to up on the catwalk.”
Scott explains her decision to do the play as part of the TheatreXtra season came about somewhat by accident, but feels it is a good fit. "TheatreXtra is predominantly student-driven. I enjoy the challenge of the drastically reduced budget and resources. It throws the focus onto the ingenuity of the student designers, and provides a different kind of experience and opportunity for the actors... and for me, as a director!" Tickets are $11 Adult, $7 Students and Seniors
The Department of Theatre and Dramatic Arts is pleased to announce
the third annual presentation of The University of Lethbridge Play
Right Prize. Generously supported by University of Lethbridge alumnus
Terry Whitehead, the competition aims to encourage excellence and
development in student playwriting.
Prize
The script chosen as Outstanding Play will receive:
- Prizes of $1500 for 1st, $750 for 2nd, and $250 for 3rd, awarded to the playwrights.
- Dramaturgical support from a member of the adjudicating jury.
- A public staged reading at the University on March 18, 2009.
General Information
- Open to ANY University of Lethbridge undergraduate student who is in good standing at the closing date of the competition.
- Scripts must be intended for the stage, as opposed to television, film or other media.
- Plays must have a reading time no shorter than 30 minutes and no longer than 60 minutes.
- All scripts must be submitted to Rebecca Gray in W850, by 4 pm, Dec 14, 2009.
For further information, check Virtual Call Board (www.uleth.ca/vcb)
or the Play Right Prize Steering Committee:
Nelson Gray(nelson.gray@uleth.ca); Gail Hanrahan(gail.hanrahan@uleth.ca)
~~~~
The 2009 winners for the annual student writing competition, Plays and Prose, supported by U of L alumnus Terry Whitehead
Play Right Prize ($1,500) - James Wade for Muse Control 1st Prize Prose ($1,500) - Marian Godfrey for Takeoff 2nd prize Prose ($750) - Henry Heavy Shield for The Art of Fasting 3rd prize Prose ($250) - Dave Bryant-Out of Sight on Barstool Row This is the second consecutive year that Heavy Shield has earned a prize for his writing.
~~~~~~~ Plays and Prose winners to debut works
March 18, 2010 (Thurs) at 8 pm David
Spinks Theatre, University of Lethbridge Admission is free and everyone is welcome.
The first
prize winner in the play category was James Wade for Muse
Control. The short story that took first place was Takeoff by Marian
Godfrey. Both prize-winning works will enjoy their first public
reading.
The juries in both categories had numerous positive comments about
the winning entries. Godfrey’s short story Takeoff is a compelling
story that challenges both social and narrative conventions.
Jurors
reviewing the play entries indicated that James Wade’s entry
Muse Control had the potential for future productions. They said Muse
Control did not overextend itself and pegged it a truly enjoyable play. There is a clear idea that is succinct and carried through, leading
a udiences on a very funny journey.
Edited by Tyler on 30 August 2010 at 8:42pm
__________________ "What have you done today to make you feel PROUD? (Proud, Heather Small)
Life is a Dream
by Pedro Calderón de la Barca
Auditions
Pedro Calderón de la Barca was a prominent playwright of Spain’s
golden age. Life is a Dream (1635), set in a fictional Poland, is the
story of a king who, fearing his son will grow up to rebel against him,
announces that the child has died, and locks him away. Twenty years
later, when the king needs to consider who will succeed him on the
throne, he arranges for the prince to fall into a drug-induced sleep
and to be brought to the palace. Upon waking, the prince behaves very
badly, anything but royal, and is quickly returned to prison. His
excursion to the palace is said to be a dream merely, but the country’s
citizens, now fully aware of the prince’s existence, set him straight
and stage a rebellion in support of his becoming their king. A battle
ensues between the citizen rebels and the Russian heirs apparent to the
throne; the play ends with an untimely death, a negotiated
settlement and arrangements for marriage.
Calderón’s play explores illusion and reality, fate and free will,
tyranny and justice. Sometimes violent and intense, sometimes
thoughtful, sometimes surprising and comic, this masterful classic has
entertained audiences the world over for nearly four hundred years.
The play will be given six performances in the University Theatre March 23 to 27, 2010 (Tues to Sat) including matinee performance on Thurs, March 25.
Life is a Dream is directed by Richard Epp, with set and lighting design by
Annette Nieukerk, and costume design by Leslie Robison-Greene.
Our production, which will employ the 1983 British translation by
Adrian Mitchell and John Barton, will give opportunity to 5 men and 2
women in the principal roles, as well as to a mixed male/female
supporting cast of performers who will contribute to dream sequences
and play prison guards, ladies in waiting, armed citizens and the like.
Open auditions will be held in the UT on Thurs/Fri,
Jan 7/8, and a confirmed cast list should be posted by Jan
18. Rehearsals will begin in late January and, although some time off
may be provided during Reading Week, students are advised to keep that
entire week clear of travel and other plans until a firm schedule is announced.
In the initial audition on January 7 or 8, actors will be asked to
read/deliver a monologue or part of a monologue or scene from the play
-- actor’s choice of character and set of lines. The passage need not
be memorized, but should be prepared. Scripts are available at the
library reserve desk, so, if you wish to audition, you should read the
play, photocopy a monologue from the play, and give it some rehearsal.
An audition sign-up sheet will be posted on the door of W-720 in early December.
If you are interested in working “behind the scenes,” please let
your interest be known to our technical director or designers or
technical staff.
~~~~
Epp presents Life's A Dream
The
curtain rises on a Daliesque dreamscape; the setting for Pedro Calderon
de la Barca’s Life’s a Dream at the University Theatre Mar. 23 to 27 at
8 p.m. nightly. This resplendent classic transports the audience back
in time to a fictional Poland, unraveling a stunning story of epic
proportions.
“Pedro Calderon de la Barca was a prominent playwright of Spain’s
Golden Age.” says director Richard Epp. “Written around 1635, Calderon
was as well known and respected in Renaissance Spain as Shakespeare was
in England. Life’s a Dream is a great old masterpiece that has
entertained audiences the world over for nearly 400 years.”
Translated by Adrian Mitchell and John Barton, the play weaves a
complex story about the king of Poland, who fears a dark prophecy and
hides away his only son for 20 years. As the aging king considers his
final successor, he orders his son be brought to the palace in a
drug-induced sleep. Upon waking, the prince’s abhorrent behavior
returns him to jail upon which the prince presents a poignant soliloquy
questioning whether the events at the palace were merely a dream.
The play’s final act culminates in a courageous battle, as rebels
descend upon the kingdom, releasing the prince from his captors to
claim the throne. The ending is unexpected and leaves audiences on the
edge of their seats.
“This play is so rich in character and action, in imaginative
settings and beautiful prose, that actors, directors and designers
continue to be drawn to it,” remarks Epp. “My own fascination with
dramatic characters who face enormous dilemmas, or are altered
significantly by their circumstances, attracts me to this play, and my
obligation as a director is to share with a contemporary audience, as
well as I can, my high regard for this play.”
With grand sets designed by Annette Nieukerk and captivating
costumes designed by Leslie Robison-Greene, audiences can expect a
thrilling and engaging night at the theatre. Don’t miss the final
mainstage production of the season.
Getting into character with the Hair ensemble
By AMANDA BERG
For
the cast of Hair, staying in character does not end when the curtain
falls. Since November, this ensemble of 27 actors has lived and
breathed this band of colourful hippies and the characters they
portray.
For Jocelyn Haub and Ian McFarlane, becoming hippies is about more than just putting on a costume – it is all in the attitude.
“We had to extensively research the era and create a story for each
of our characters,” says Jocelyn, who plays Sheila. “We were required
to interview people who experienced the 1960s and could give us an idea
of what it was really like. The script has no information or back-story
for our characters, so it was up to us to bring them to life.”
Understanding the significance of the 1960s and the lifestyles characters may have led was a team effort.
“Our dramaturge, Katherine Smith, was constantly digging up
information we could use to create a more authentic experience on
stage. We were even given a list containing hundreds of slang terms
from the 60s as reference,” Haub says. “It has been fun to bond over
our characters.”
“The cast is by far the single best I’ve had the pleasure of working
with,” adds Ian McFarlane, who plays Berger. “Our cast is made up of
students and professors from across campus, not just from Fine Arts.
Ife Abiola, who spends his days studying bugs in biology, plays one of
the main characters, Hud. It’s been amazing to get to know and work
with everyone.”
Putting together a musical of this calibre was not easy.
“There are more than 30 musical numbers to learn,” Haub says. “There
are lots and lots of words to memorize and you also have to bring out
your character, keep up with the choreography, and hit all the right
notes!”
“It’s a refreshing view, what these people did to make a change,”
says McFarlane. “They found an identity and fought for their rights the
best they knew how. I believe their story has a real impact on today’s
society.”
Haub says the themes of Hair still resonate.
“The message of peace, love and happiness is significant,” adds
Haub. “These people didn’t want to live in the social stereotypes and
were determined to find their own path. They lived their beliefs, and
this musical truly captures the essence of their life.”
Instead of spending the summer wishing you had something exciting to do why not create a sculpture, paint a picture, make up a play, or appear on stage. Come and participate in one or more of the U of L Faculty of Fine Arts Drama and Art Camps. There are lots of week-long camps to choose from. All camps run Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4 pm. Four-day camps are denoted.
The registration fee of $205 per camp ($165/4-day camp) includes all materials, camp T-shirt, and lunch each day. To register for a camp, call U of L Sport and Recreation Services at (403) 329-2706.
For more information call Fine Arts Camps Director Katherine Wasiak at (403) 329-2227.
Drama Adventures (ages 7 to 10) July 5 – 9; July 19 – 23; Aug 3 – 6 (4 day); Aug. 9 – 13 Use your body, voice and imagination to create a world of original characters and stories in this action-packed camp. Participants must be able to read. The camp concludes with a performance.
Survivor: Drama Camp (ages 11 to 15) July 12 – 16; July 26 – 30; Aug. 16 – 20 Acting, comedy, costumes, make-up, improvisation and more! These camps are perfect older participants looking for a dramatic challenge.
Art Adventures (ages 7 – 10) July 5 – 9; July 12 – 17; July 19 – 23; July 26 – 30; Aug 3 – 6 (4day) Explore drawing, painting, mask-making, printmaking, sculpture and more -- something new and interesting every day. No experience necessary! The camp concludes with an exhibition of the creative exploits of participants.
Exploring Art (ages 11 – 15) Aug 9 -13; Aug. 16 – 20 Specifically for students interested in investigating in-depth a variety of art experiences including painting, sculpture, printmaking and more. http://www.uleth.ca/finearts/news/1860
University of Lethbridge Box Office
(W510) located on Level 5 in main University Hall
Mon - Fri 12:30 to 3:30pm & 1 hour prior to performance
Tickets may also be purchased by phone, (403)329 - 2616
with a credit card. All performances begin at 8 pm and are located in either University Theatre or David Spinks Theatre, unless otherwise indicated. www.uleth.ca/finearts/drama/events
~~~~~~ Uncommon Women and Others by Wendy Wasserstein October 19 - 23, 2010 In 1978, five women reunite to discuss where their lives have led. Flash back six years when they met as students at a prestigious college, formed friendships and made the choices that shaped their destinies. Mature content. www.uleth.ca/finearts/events/2032
~~~~~~ Spring Awakening by Frank Wedekind November 23 - 27, 2010 Written in 1891, and not performed uncensored for decades, this “children’s tragedy” is as much a statement about sexual morality and bourgeois hypocrisy today as it was a century ago. Melchior, Moritz, Wendla and their friends, are experiencing a sexual awakening, becoming curious about their bodies, each other, masturbation and more. Their teachers and parents fight to keep the teens on the straight and narrow, with sometimes hilarious, and often disastrous results. Mature content www.uleth.ca/finearts/events/1978 ~~~~~~ The Seagull by Anton Chekhov February 15 - 19, 2011 Konstantin loves his mother but is jealous of her fame and depressed about his lack of success as a playwright. He despises the celebrated young writer who lives with her and seems to have captured the attention of the girl he adores. Passions abound and idealism is challenged by triviality in this absorbing drama from the master of comic realism. www.uleth.ca/finearts/events/1994
~~~~~~ Richard III by William Shakespeare March 22 - 26, 2011 This eternal classic is fraught with treachery, seduction, and murder as Richard III attempts to claim the throne of England www.uleth.ca/finearts/events/1999
~~~~~~ TheatreXtra
The student-run TheatreXtra is bold, exciting
and entertaining and continues to challenge students
and move audiences.
~~~~~~ Muse Control by James Wade September 30 - October 2, 2010 A comedy about a struggling writer whose life begins to fall apart when he takes in a “muse” to help him finish his newest book. Winner of 2010 U of L PlayRight Prize. Mature language. http://www.uleth.ca/finearts/events/1965
~~~~~~ The Good Egg by Michael Lewis MacLennan October 28 - 30, 2010 Trouble arises when a successful couple wanting a child is directed to alternate methods of conception and meet Wade, who seems like the virile answer to their prayers. But as the trio becomes more intimate, secret feelings emerge that bring out the worst in everyone. Mature content. www.uleth.ca/finearts/events/1972
~~~~~~ Jan 20 - 22, 2011 and March 3 - 5, 2011 Productions will be announced during the fall semester
~~~~~~
Plays and Prose Competition
March 16, 2011 Plays and Prose Competition Winners Celebration U of L students read their winning entries from the Striking Prose and PlayRight Prize competitions. www.uleth.ca/finearts/events/1997
~~~~~~
University of Lethbridge Opera Workshop
Oct 5, 2010 - Ensemble Extravaganza! U of L Singers, Wind Orchestra, Global Drums, Opera Workshop, Jazz Ensemble, Vox Musica, Collaborative Ensemble, Trumpet Ensemble, and Women’s Chorus. www.uleth.ca/finearts/events/1966
Nov 5 & 6, 2010 - Opera Around the World Join the U of L Opera Workshop on a world tour. Enjoy engaging characters in favourite scenes as the journey spans twelve countries, four continents, and more than twenty operas. www.uleth.ca/finearts/events/1973
Feb 11 and 12, 2011 - An Evening of Chamber Opera Giancarlo Menotti’s comic radio opera The Old Maid and the Thief headlines this Opera Workshop performance, which also includes Samuel Barber’s A Hand of Bridge and the delightful 18th century comedy La Cantarina by Franz Joseph Haydn. www.uleth.ca/finearts/events/1993
Edited by Tyler on 30 August 2010 at 11:15pm
__________________ "What have you done today to make you feel PROUD? (Proud, Heather Small)
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Topic: Theatre at the University of Lethbridge
