Love for theater and arts
By Kaveri Gyanendra
On the far northwest end of the campus stand the theater and arts buildings, which many students may rarely enter. In fact, the last time some probably entered that building may have been during their freshman orientation to listen to lectures regarding academic integrity and ACCESS cards.
Featuring a 500-seat capacity, a fancy orchestra pit and a large, traditional proscenium stage, the Mayer theater hosts various performances throughout the year that showcase students' work and talent.
Ranging from dance concerts to improv nights and multiple plays, the theater and arts department has a variety of events to offer their audiences.
Beginning this weekend, "The Playboy of the Western World" features a mix of comedy and drama.
Staring senior Jeffery Adams as the main character and playboy, Christy Mahon, the play takes place in County Mayo, Ireland at the turn of the century. It begins with Mahon (Adams) arriving at a pub, to announce that he has killed his father. The charisma Mahon uses to tell his story of slaying his father receives accolades from the people in the bar and he is regarded as a town hero. A pride swollen Mahon attracts the ladies of the town who are swooned and impressed by his bravery and fall at his feet with utmost love interests.
All comes to a halt and all feelings toward him are inverted when his father, obviously not dead and just wounded, arrives at the pub. The townspeople are disappointed with his lies and result to shunning him, as he is now seen as a coward. Throughout the play, Mahon runs back and forth trying to win back the trust of the locals, especially his love interest Pegeen Mike, played by senior Molly Murphy. The play highlights the difference between hearing a story versus actually seeing the event happen.
Directed by Fred Tollini, S.J., the show features a blend of comedy and drama. Out of all the performances that the theater and arts department organizes, I think it is essential that all Santa Clara students attend at least one to gain understanding of the arts.
The cast has been rehearsing since the first or second week of the quarter and looks forward to performing in front of an eager audience. Students and staff are encouraged to venture out to Mayer Theater and observe the magic the Theater department has to offer. The show runs on Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and tickets are $5 for students.