1 Two Gentlemen of Parents' weekend highlighted by Verona The spring play left audiences in fits of laughter. A 1920's-clad cast spoke in Old English vernacular melodramatically--a strange but hilariously funny combination. As Lori Spiegel said, "It was off-the - wall; that's what made it so good!" Melodramatic acting, not to mention some bizarre costumes, was a new approach to Shakespeare on the Cedarville stage. An interview with Mrs. Merchant revealed that while at college "students, especially English and communication majors,should be exposed to new "It Was OffThe Wall; That's What Made It Good." things, especially controversial things in the theatre world." Melodrama and Shakespeare are definitely a controversial combination but is substantiated by its humor and its superficial portrayal ofcharacters, which emphasizes their superficial lifestyle. Under the direction ofDiane Merchant, Shakespeare's Two Gentlemen of Verona transformed the stage of Alford Auditorium into an Italian Roaring 20's. Changing the 17th Century Shakespeare play to a 1920's rendition was difficult and quite an undertaking. Merchant thought the transition a justifiable parallel, "especially the attitudes about romantic love and materialism." But the well-accepting audience made it worth the work. The Duke contemplated the happeningsgoing on around him. Phil Chapman played His Highness, the Duke of Milan. Unknown to the others, Valentine eavesdropped on the scenes ofthe moment.Gary Clemmer played his character well through his expressiveness and hand-motions. The Hostess of the Inn and Sylvia's attendant,Ursula,gossiped about recent happenings. The hostess was played by Ruth Mar graff and Sylvia's attendant was played by Sharon Van Dommelen.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTM4ODY=