2007-2008 Season
columbinus
By the United States Theatre Project
Written by Stephen Karam and PJ Paparelli, and directed by Henry MacCarthy
Oct. 25–28, 2007
Based on the tragic events of April 20, 1999, in Littleton, Colorado, the docudrama columbinus presents a snapshot of American youth culture. Combining original interviews and transcripts drawn from the Columbine massacre, while dissecting the cultural pathologies that might have led to the tragedy, columbinus is a testament to the relevance of the contemporary theatre, and an urgent call for self-reflectivity and dialogue.
Festival Showcase: A Celebration of Student Work
Adviser: Amy Seham
Black Box Theatre and Anderson Theatre/various times
Join us for a fun-filled weekend of student exploration and excellence. In afternoon, evening and late-night time slots, audiences can enjoy One-Act Plays by advanced directing students, a Dance Gallery of advanced student choreographers, and Late Night Soup for new experimental work. Saturday night will feature an updated reprise of the popular E Pluribus Gustavus—a serious and funny blend of original material created by our social justice theatre troupe I Am, We Are. Please see our fall calendar for details.
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
Music & lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart, and directed by Henry McCarthy
February 21–24 & February 29 to March 2, 2008
"Something familiar, something peculiar, something for everyone: a comedy tonight!"
Inspired by the comedies of Plautus (251-183 B.C.E.), Stephen Sondheim's fast-paced musical farce takes us on hilarious rollercoaster ride of mistaken identity, chases, magic potions, long-lost siblings, and the Cretan plague, not to mention catchy tunes, bawdy lyrics, ensemble dance numbers, and a happy ending, of course!
Old/New, Fast/Slow, Movement/Stillness
The Gustavus Dance Company in Concert
April 11–13, 2008
Showcasing the diverse artistry of faculty choreographers Cynthia Gutierrez-Garner, Michele Rusinko, Melissa Rolnick, and selected student choreographers. This year's highlight: a performance by the Gustavus Dance Company of two dances from the acclaimed Shapiro and Smith Dance Company repertory, staged by longtime company member and Gustavus dance faculty member Laura Selle-Virtucio.
Fefu and Her Friends
By Maria Irene Fornes, and directed by Amy Seham
May 8–11, 2008
This witty, cutting-edge classic introduces eight fascinating women who have gathered at Fefu's home in the 1930s. When the action divides into separate scenes, spectators are invited to follow, moving among several theatre spaces for intimate access to the women's relationships with one another and with their society. Fefu is truly a unique theatrical experience.
