The Wanda L. Bass School of Music’s spotlight musical of 2020 will be “A Little Night Music,” directed by a guest director.
“A Little Night Music,” with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by Hugh Wheeler, tells the story of the romantic lives of several couples in Sweden around the year of 1900 with elements of both drama and comedy.
The show is being directed by guest director Matthew Sipress-Banks, associate production/company manager from the Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma.
Viviana Goodwin, music theater/vocal performance sophomore, is playing “Mrs. Segstrom,” a member of the show’s Quintet.
“Matthew is an amazing director to work with,” Goodwin said. “The show is being done very new and innovative. The script is hilarious, and the cast is incredible; I am having the time of my life.”
Goodwin said students should see the performance.
“People should come see the show because it’s absolutely hilarious, the music is beautiful and it’s a Sondheim show.” Goodwin said.
Sara Massoudi, acting sophomore, is playing the role of “Anne Egerman.”
“Matthew is one of the best directors I have worked with. He is the definition of making theatre collaborative,” Massoudi said. “He gives us the freedom to be able to play and bounce our ideas off of one another.”
Massoudi said the show has a broad range, making it more entertaining.
“For people that like music, the music is absolutely incredible, but also, there are many scenes in the show. You would be surprised to know that there are so many good, dramatic scenes.” Massoudi said. “It will make you laugh, cry and tear up all in one night!” Massoudi said. “The rehearsal process has been so creative, very organized and just so fun.”
Both said they hope audiences will come to hear the beautiful music and enjoy the humorous script of “A Little Night Music.”
As a spotlight musical, the show will be performed in the Burg Theatre in Kirkpatrick Fine Arts Center.
The show is opening Feb. 28, and runs through Mar. 1. Tickets are sold at the ticket office in the Edith Kinney Gaylord Center or online. Vouchers for discounted tickets will be sold outside the caf the week of the show.
Editors Note: Jessica Vanek, community manager, is in the cast of “A Little Night Music.” Vanek was not involved in the writing or editing of this piece.
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