The School of Theater is preparing for “Arcadia,” its second mainstage production of the season.
The play, written by Tom Stoppard, moves back and forth from 1809 to the present, with two plots centering around the same English estate. The modern scenes focus on two competing scholars researching a possible scandal that took place at the estate. The 1809 scenes focus on the estate’s former household.
Hal Kohlman, adjunct professor of theater and performance, is the director.
“In many ways, ‘Arcadia’ is two shows layered on top of one another,” Kohlman said. “It focuses on how the past and present intertwine to create understanding and hope.”
Kohlman said the show is difficult to describe, and anyone who is curious must experience it for themselves to fully understand the plot and themes.
“At heart, it’s a comedy, but it requires thoughtful reflection to recognize where the comedy comes out and where it comes from,” Kohlman said. “It’s smart, clever and difficult, and it really makes you think.”
Mary Taylor Hesterberg, acting senior portraying “Hannah” in the play, said Kohlman encouraged the actors to connect with their characters and explore the play’s clues connecting the past and present-day scenes.
“We were encouraged to explore every possibility,” Hesterberg said. “We talked a lot as a group, which was nice because we could come to our own conclusions while still being on the same page.”
Hesterberg said the cast and creative team have been supportive of one another throughout the rehearsal process.
“Everyone comes in with all their own ideas, and we all are so supportive and bounce off of one another so well,” Hesterberg said. “We’ve created something really special.”
Olivia Laskin, acting junior portraying “Thomasina” in the play, said she hopes audiences connect with the characters and the themes they represent.
“We battle love and logic a lot in real life,” Laskin said, “These characters battle that too, and the writing portrays that so well. I find it very interesting, and I hope the people who see it feel that way too.”
Kohlman said “Arcadia” is the kind of show every university should produce.
“It’s not the kind of show where you can sit back and let it wash over you,” Kohlman said. “You have to be an active participant to really enjoy it. In that way, it’s difficult, but it’s very clever and smart.”
Performances will be at 8 p.m. Dec. 5-8, and 2 p.m. Dec. 7-8 in Burg Theatre in Kirkpatrick Fine Arts Center.
Tickets can be purchased online or through the ticket office in the Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment.
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