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Event
The Seagull
This beloved classic established Anton Chekhov as an important and revolutionary Russian dramatist. When The Seagull first premiered in 1896, it ushered in a new era of theatre, signaling the transition from the age of melodrama to a new period of modern realism. It is a hugely significant play in the development of modern theatre.
The college production will feature Tom Stoppard's contemporary translation of Chekhov's Russian script. Stoppard's adaptation had its United States premiere at the Delacorte Theatre in Central Park in 2001. That production featured a star studded cast, including Meryl Streep, Kevin Kline, Natalie Portman, John Goodman and Christopher Walken. Edelman is enthusiastic about the Stoppard translation, saying "Stoppard's use of language is brilliant. He brings the play to life, illuminating the humanity of the tragic characters while also enjoying the many layers of humor in the script."
The plot revolves around Irena Arkadina, a famous actress who presides over a household wracked with desperate love, with dreams of success and dread of failure. Her son Konstantin is an aspiring avant-garde theatre director and playwright who dreams of creating a new art form. However, his unrequited love for Nina, "the seagull" of the play's title, devastates his spirit. Similarly, a variety of other characters must confront their unfulfilled dreams, shimmering like elusive reflections in the nearby lake.
According to Edelman, "The Seagull is full of heart. Chekhov once said that this play contains 'five tons of love,' and that feels true. While the story ends tragically, it is also filled with humor."
For this production, Edelman and college set designer Larry Lang have decided to seat the entire audience on the Center Theatre stage, surrounding the action of the play. This intimate seating arrangement will bring the audience within inches of the action, a perfect setting for Chekhov's actor-centered and psychologically nuanced drama. For this reason, seating will be limited, and patrons are encouraged to purchase their tickets in advance if possible.
The cast of thirteen talented performers includes a mix of full time college students and local community artists. The role of Irina Arkadina will played by Andrea McCullough. Her son Konstantin will be played by college theatre major Daemon Seraphim. Other theatre majors in principal roles include Monique Marmon in the role of Masha and Brittani Ray as the aspiring young actress Nina. Local actors Jason Davis, Gary Hudson and Vincent Collins Smith will play Irina's lover Trigorin, Irina's brother Sorin and the local doctor Dorn respectively. Other members of the outstanding ensemble cast include Brooke Acker, Geoff Graham, Tyler Kaeser, Margie Loesch, Brent Lorenz and Will Moody.
The play's detailed period costumes have been designed by college costume instructor Kathy Dingman Katz and built by students in her costume construction class. College theatre technician Larry L. Lang has designed the scenery and lighting. The production features a sound design by David Wolf and hair and make-up designed by Amanda Katz. The play is being stage managed by Shelby White.
The college student organization (ASMC) will be serving refreshments (including sweet and savory options) prior to each performance and during intermission. Come early and enjoy a delicious light meal before the show! Proceeds benefit the college's student government as well as the theatre program.
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LocationMendocino College Center Theatre (View)
1000 Hensley Creek Rd.
Ukiah, CA 95482
United States
Categories
| Dog Friendly: No |
| Non-Smoking: Yes! |
| Wheelchair Accessible: Yes! |
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