An original musical premiering at 91����Ƶ’s MainStage Theater this week brings audiences the captivating, never-before-seen story of a Russian poet, nun and saint who saved countless lives during World War II and was killed for it. Created by 91����Ƶ professors Jerry Holsopple and Justin Poole, “On the Breath of God: The Life of Maria Skobtsova” runs from Friday-Saturday, March 28-29 @ 7 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, April 3-5 @ 7 p.m.; and on Sunday, March 30 @ 2 p.m.

The sweeping drama traces the remarkable life of Skobtsova, played by 91����Ƶ senior Reah Clymer, from impetuous teen to chain-smoking nun who sheltered refugees and helped many Jews escape Nazi-occupied Paris. Known as “Mother Maria,” she was arrested and sent to the Ravensbrück concentration camp, where she was executed.

“You really see the arc to Maria’s life,” Poole said. “By the end of the play, you’re completely invested in who she is, and you see this dramatic transformation she goes through.”

The fourth collaboration between Holsopple and Poole, “On the Breath of God” brings together a multigenerational cast and crew of 91����Ƶ students, alumni, faculty/staff and community members. The musical features a chorus of four women mystics from history, singing lyrics taken directly from their texts to Celtic folk melodies, performed by musicians Perry Blosser ’18 (violin), Benjamin Brantley (guitar), and Dirk Holsopple ’10 (Uilleann pipes). These mystics, played by students Elie Hoover and Erin Batten and alumnae Caitlin Holsapple ’16 and Elizabeth Eby ’22, surround Skobtsova during pivotal moments in her life. Though invisible to her, they influence her decisions through their words.

“Celtic music is able to hold trauma and hope together,” Holsopple said. “That’s what this story is. It’s the story of a woman who endured all kinds of trauma and never lost the ability to have hope and keep doing what she believed was right, up until the very end.”

Clymer delivers a masterful performance as Skobtsova, pouring her soul into the multifaceted character, capturing her playfulness, fierceness and suffering. “Mother Maria lived a tough life,” Clymer said. “She lost two daughters, went through two divorces, lived through war and displacement and deportation, and was thrown in jail multiple times. I’ve had to go there, emotionally, in every rehearsal.”

The set design is minimalist yet imaginative. Backlit stained glass panels form the backdrop, paired with an animated collage of photos projected onto two screens. While most characters in the play wear neutral-toned, period-specific clothing, with Skobtsova dressed in a Russian Orthodox nun’s habit, the mystics don flowing robes accented with pops of color. Frequent 91����Ƶ Theatre collaborator Rachel Herrick returns as costume designer. Rounding out the crew are Shannon Dove (technical director and set design), Robert Weaver (light designer), Tom Carr (sound technician), and Sarah Peak (stage manager), among others.

Despite the play’s early- to mid-20th century setting, Clymer said its themes are just as relevant today. “This story is so timely,” she said. “It’s about immigration. It’s about refugees. It’s about war and political turmoil.”

Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, $10 for children 18 and under, and $6 for university students. For tickets, visit:

Read a preview of the play from the Daily News-Record .

Cast

Liz “Maria” Skobtsova – Reah Clymer
Sophia – Melody Wilson
Jura/Sailor – Ross Haun
Alexander Blok/Captain/Father Dimitri – Adam Hoover
Dmitri/Daniil/Peters – Joe Seitz
Father/Metropolitan – Shannon Dove
Evgenia/Klara – Kay Pettus 
Ana/Ida – Alexis Lewis
Gardener/Father Kern/SS Officer – Nathanael Eby
Lyuba/Nun at Lourmel House/Inna – Cassidy Walker
Nun/Irena – Emilee White
Therese of Lisieux/Hildegard of Bingen – Elie Hoover
Hadewijch of Flanders – Elizabeth Eby
Mechthild of Magdeburg – Caitlyn Holsapple 
Julian of Norwich/Theresa of Avila – Erin Batten
Young Liz/Giana – Vienna Poole
Young Giana/Nastia – Felicity Poole

Crew

Co-creator – Justin Poole
Co-creator – Jerry Holsopple
Costume designer – Rachel Herrick
Technical Director/Set Design – Shannon Dove
Light Designer – Robert Weaver 
Sound Technician – Tom Carr
Stage Manager – Sarah Peak
Assistant Stage Manager – Jordyn Thompson 
Video Production Assistant – Zack Furr
Video Production Assistant – Oslyn Mejia Gomez
Cast and Crew Photographer/Video Production Assistant – Cassidy Walker
Video Production Assistant – Willem Hedrick 
Video Production Assistant – Allie Watkins

Musicians

Violin – Perry Blosser
Guitar – Benjamin Brantley
Irish Pipes – Dirk Holsopple

The musical, adapted from Riordan’s 2005 bestseller, debuted on Broadway in 2019 and follows the journey of Percy Jackson, an underachieving teen who discovers he’s a demigod. Played by 91����Ƶ senior Adam Hoover, Percy is accused of stealing Zeus’ lightning bolt, leading him on a quest with his friends Grover, portrayed by Mac Rhodes-Lehman, and Annabeth, played by Ella Walters, to clear his name and prevent a war between the Greek gods. Along the way, Percy must face mythological monsters and unravel the mysteries of his heritage.

Directed by 91����Ƶ Theatre Program Director Justin Poole, with music direction by Jim Clemens and costume design by Rachel Herrick, the production delivers an action-packed adventure filled with humor, heart, and high-energy performances. Rounding out the artistic staff are Robert Weaver (lighting designer), Shannon Dove (set designer/technical director) and Ellie de Waal (choreographer).

The electrifying score, performed by Clemens on keyboard alongside a live rock band, will energize the intimate theater space, while larger-than-life puppetry and choreographed sword fights enhance the mythical spectacle.

Senior Cassidy Williams portrays Luke and Ares, delivering dynamic performances that combine vocal range and physical prowess. “Singing while sword fighting is no easy feat,” said Williams. “It’s been a rewarding challenge to portray such complex characters.”

Senior Alexis Lewis serves as assistant director and production assistant. “This show offers a fresh, punk rock twist on classic Greek myths,” Lewis said. “It’s packed with fun, upbeat moments that will appeal to longtime fans and newcomers alike.”

The cast, composed of 91����Ƶ students and community members, will interact with the audience throughout the production, using the entire Studio Theater space for an immersive experience. “It’s a highly dynamic production,” said Poole. “There are no barriers between the cast and the audience—they’ll be performing from the stage, the mezzanine, and even within the crowd.”

Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, $10 for children 18 and under, and $6 for university students. For tickets, visit:

Cast
Percy Jackson — Adam Hoover
Annabeth Chase — Ella Walters
Annabeth Understudy/Silena Beauregard — Emilee White
Grover/Mr.D — Mac Rhodes-Lehman
Luke/Ares — Cassidy Williams
Sally Jackson/The Oracle — Emma Saville
Clarisse/Mrs.Dodds/Medusa/Charon — Elie Hoover
Chiron/Kronos — Ezra Smith
Gabe Ugliani/Hades/Poseidon — Jacob Nissley
Katie Gardner/Various ensemble roles — Saycia Szakonyi
Various ensemble roles — Katie Beth Warner

Crew
Director — Justin Poole
Music Director — Jim Clemens
Assistant Director/Promotions Assistant/Production Assistant — Alexis Lewis
Vocal Coach — Afton Rhodes-Lehman
Technical Director and Set Designer — Shannon Dove
Costume Designer — Rachel Herrick
Light Designer — Robert Weaver
Choreographer — Ellie de Waal
Stage Manager — Sarah Peak
Assistant Stage Manager — Erin Batten
Assistant Stage Manager — River Lynch

For girls into soccer:

Nike Girls Soccer Camp

For: Girls ages 5 to 13
Date: Monday, June 10, to Friday, June 14, from 9 a.m. to noon.
Fee: $215
More info:
This camp offers a unique and engaging environment where girls ages 5 to 13 can have fun learning new skills, perfecting techniques, increasing their knowledge of the game and making new friends. Royals Head Women’s Soccer Coach Anna Hardin and her staff lead a curriculum blending traditional and modern coaching methods to help every camper progress to a higher level of soccer play.

For children interested in theatre:

Summer Musical Theatre

Students develop their skills in acting, singing and dancing in a supportive environment of highly-skilled, award-winning professionals and college faculty. 91����Ƶ Theatre Program Director Justin Poole and resident choreographer Ellie de Waal lead two three-week musical theatre intensives, each culminating in public performances of a major musical production. More info at emu.edu/summer-musical-theatre.

Junior Program
For: Rising 4th-8th graders
Date: Monday, June 24, to Saturday, July 13. Mondays to Fridays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Final shows on Friday, July 12, and Saturday, July 13, at 7 p.m.
Fee: $1,000 includes three weeks of instruction and rehearsal and two public performances
Deadline to register: June 14
Students explore the world of musical theatre and perform two musical revue shows in this three-week program. Auditions are not required.

Senior Program
For: Rising 9th-2024 high school graduates
Date: Monday, July 22, to Sunday, Aug. 11. Mondays to Fridays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Final shows on Friday, Aug. 9, at 7 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 10, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Aug. 11, at 2 p.m.
Fee: $1,200 includes full days of instruction and rehearsal as well as three public performances
Deadline to register: July 12
Students can choose between a dedicated three-week performance track or technical theatre track, culminating in the presentation of Seussical the Musical in the MainStage Theatre. Students in the performance track will engage in all morning classes and rehearsals and perform on stage. Those in the technical theatre track will engage in all morning classes and work with the costume designer, technical director, stage management team and others to support the production in all technical areas.

For children who like the visual arts:

Summer Art Academy

For: Ages 8-11
Date: Monday, June 17, to Friday, June 21 (first week); Monday, June 24, to Friday, June 28 (second week). Classes for both weeks are held from 9 a.m. to noon.
Fee: $180 per week of classes
More info: emu.edu/summer-art-academy
Cyndi Gusler, professor of visual arts at 91����Ƶ, leads small classes for children as they explore the world of drawing and painting. Students in the Amazing Animals and Beautiful Botanicals class (first week) hike a trail, collect sketches on a nature walk and use that inspiration to make paintings and drawings full of vibrant color. Students in the Acrylic and Watercolor Painting class (second week) will improve their painting technique, build their artistic imagination and learn to paint from life in 91����Ƶ’s art studio and outside on its beautiful campus.

For children who are science-minded:

Solar Solutionary Camp

For: Rising 8th-12th graders
Date: Monday, June 10, to Friday, June 14, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Fee: $250
More info: emu.edu/graduate/continuing-and-professional-education/solar-solutionary-camp
Campers will take field trips to local solar facilities and learn about solar energy as they build and deploy a to Africa for those without access to electricity. Students will gain a better understanding of the problems surrounding energy access and the threat of climate change. They will be divided into teams — assembly engineers, quality control engineers, reporters, community relations, and artists — and each team will have a set of tasks essential to the deployment of the solar suitcase.

Solar Solutionary Camp is in collaboration with the JMU Center for the Advancement of Sustainable Energy. 

Based on Disney’s beloved 1989 animated classic, the stage musical premiered on Broadway in 2008. Ariel, a young mermaid princess played by senior Afton Rhodes-Lehman, dreams of the world above the sea and falls in love with a human, Prince Eric — played by senior Thaddeus Jackson — much to the dismay of her father, King Triton. She makes a deal with Ursula, a half-octopus sea witch played by community member Holly Hanks Wanta, and gives up her voice in exchange for a chance to become human and win Prince Eric’s heart. But, she only has three days to find true love; if she fails in her quest, her soul will belong to Ursula. 

“It’s been an exciting new world to dive into,” said Rhodes-Lehman, who grew up wearing Ariel-themed bracelets and sketching pictures of the Disney princess in her notebooks. “I feel like every kid grows up with that one movie idol and for me it was Ariel. Although, this version of Ariel is deeper and more fleshed-out than the one in the movies.”

The show is directed and produced by 91����Ƶ Theatre Program Director Justin Poole with music direction from 91����Ƶ faculty member Kyle Remnant and longtime collaborators Angie Clemens and Jim Clemens. It features a multigenerational cast and crew ranging in age from elementary through high school, as well as 91����Ƶ students, staff, alumni and community members. Rounding out the artistic staff are 91����Ƶ student Thomas Erickson (light operator), 91����Ƶ faculty/staff members Shannon Dove (tech director) and Rachel Herrick (costume designer), 91����Ƶ alums Jareya Harder ’22 (stage manager) and Robert Weaver ’18 (lighting designer), guest sound technician Tom Carr and resident choreographer Ellie de Waal.

The show features crowd-pleasing hits such as “Under the Sea,” “Part of Your World” and “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” and a number of new songs only found in the musical.

“It’s an immersive experience with a Broadway score that has a gravitas and beauty that surpasses what you find in both film adaptations,” said Poole, adding that there is plenty of interaction between the audience and cast. “It truly feels like a big Broadway production in terms of the musical and dance numbers.”

A painted backdrop behind the stage allows for cutouts and puppets to add another dimension to the story. The show opens with a group of children in front of the backdrop playing out scenes from “The Little Mermaid” with character puppets. As the overture music swells, the play comes to life on a stage that is transformed into an underwater world featuring sea creatures and three-fourths of the set made from recycled materials and found objects.

A treasure chest doubles as a sailing ship gliding across the stage on wheels. An assortment of umbrellas, rakes and beach balls piece together to form a giant fish during a rendition of “Under the Sea.” When Ariel is saving Prince Eric from his shipwreck, an enormous piece of white fabric combined with strobe lights faithfully recreates the effects of a thunderstorm at sea.

“We’re putting on a massive, elaborate spectacle on a shoestring budget,” said Poole. “That’s the magic of it.”

The musical is geared toward all ages, with singing along from the audience encouraged.

Tickets are $6-$10 for students and children and $18-$20 for adults and seniors. For tickets, visit /theatre/program/calendar.

Theater-goers in the Shenandoah Valley will get the first look this winter at an 91����Ƶ production that will embark on a European tour in 2022.

Bonhoeffer: Cell 92 depicts the life of German dissident and theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who was imprisoned and murdered for his opposition to Hitler and the Nazi regime in World War II. He spent one and half years in prison before being hanged in April 1945, just weeks from the end of the war.

The play opens Friday, Jan. 21, for a two-week run in 91����Ƶ’s Mainstage Theater and in March at Court Square Theater in Harrisonburg.

Performances at 91����Ƶ are

• Friday & Saturday, Jan. 21 and 22, 7 p.m.
• Sunday, Jan. 23, 2 p.m.
• Wednesday, Jan. 26, 10 a.m. 
• Thursday, Jan. 27,  7 p.m. (International Holocaust Remembrance Day)
• Friday & Saturday, Jan. 28 & 29, 7 p.m.
• Sunday, Jan. 30, 2 p.m.

Tickets are $15/adults and 91����Ƶ faculty/staff; $12/seniors (65+); $12/non-91����Ƶ students and children; and free for 91����Ƶ and Bridgewater College students.

It is the second recent collaboration of 91����Ƶ professors and co-creators Jerry Holsopple and Justin Poole. Their fall 2021 musical “U2 Romeo & Juliet,” combining music of the iconic Irish rock band with Shakespeare’s famous tragedy, earned accolades from audiences and recognition from the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival. 

The duo co-wrote the Bonhoeffer script and combined their expertise in cinema and theater.  

“Audiences will see multiple parallels between Bonhoeffer’s time and our own, as he examines the tensions between his pacifist and theological ideals and his moral obligation to protect the oppressed,” said Poole.

After months interacting with primary source materials, Holsopple said his appreciation grew for the Lutheran pastor: “He had no interest in being a martyr, he was just trying to figure out what it means to be faithful to Jesus and to his neighbor. What I came to value was his refusal to allow abstract theological questions to stop him from action.”

The sole live actor is Poole as Bonhoeffer. His character exists within three walls that act both as his prison cell and as cinematic screens that project flashbacks and imagery.

“Not only do the screens offer another dimension to this theater piece, but we used them to explore his friendships and romantic life,” said Holsopple. 

The play weaves eye-witness accounts, photos, and primary sources such as correspondence from the posthumous collection Letters and Papers from Prison. An original cello score composed and performed by Kimberly Souther, director of 91����Ƶ’s Preparatory Music Program, is a haunting backdrop.

The large cast involved in filmed material includes local professional actors, 91����Ƶ theater students and community members. Poole and Holsopple also draw from an accomplished group of local production artists: stage director , 91����Ƶ alumna and professor of theater at James Madison University; choreographer and dance teacher ; designers Robert Weaver and Rachel Herrick and production assistants Ezrionna Prioleau, Hailey Holcomb and Jareya Harder.

After a run at Court Square Theater in March, the production will move to Austria. Poole and Holsopple are planning the Vienna-based performance schedule for May 2022 in conjunction with the . celebrating its 95th birthday celebration. The language study and study abroad program has strong connections to the U.S. Embassy.

Editor’s Note 12/20/2021: This production earned multiple awards from the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival: Certificates of Merit for co-creators Justin Poole and Jerry Holsopple and fight choreographer Wolf Sherrill, as well as nominations for the Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship competition for Greta Schrag, Elizabeth Eby, Anna Hoover, and Andrew Stoltzfus. Eby was nominated for the MTI Musical Theater Intensive Audition as well.

Audiences at 91����Ƶ’s “U2 Romeo & Juliet” are in for a treat. A theater production that combines the artistry of William Shakespeare and the iconic Irish band U2 is exciting, intense and bold. The band’s poetic songs easefully carry classic themes of hatred and violence, love and reconciliation. 

Live music performed by a skilled ensemble of actors and local band Prince Bellerose, with original videos, choreography and intense fight scenes, will also make this theater experience memorable. The rock musical, created by faculty members Justin Poole and Jerry Holsopple, not only tells the story of the constant human struggle between light and darkness, but challenges audiences to make a difference in today’s chaotic world.

This is a play about the horrible things we do to each other and the need for us to advocate for peace and justice despite seemingly insurmountable odds.

—Justin Poole, theater program director and professor of theater

“The music of U2 works so well in this show because most of their songs mean more than one thing,” said Holsopple, professor of visual and communication arts. “It may be about love, but it is also about this other situation. It goes from lament to prophetic anger, from intense personal feelings to grand ideas all while balancing multiple narratives on the flow of text and music.”

“U2 Romeo & Juliet: An Original Rock Musical” runs Oct. 16-30, in the Mainstage Theater, University Commons. Performances are 7 p.m. Oct. 16, 28, 29, and 30, and 2 p.m. Oct 17 and 30.

A ‘disordered, uncertain world’

Poole conceived the idea for the rock musical shortly after the tragedy of 9/11. His vision was sparked by his college professor’s creation that paired Shakespeare and The Beatles for a musical of “The Two Gentlemen of Verona.”

“I started envisioning a performance of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ set to the music and lyrics of my personal favorite band U2,” Poole wrote in the program’s creator notes. “It would be a much darker, morally complicated play that mirrored the new state of the world as I saw it: disordered, uncertain, violent, desperate.”

It took 20 years for anyone to be enthusiastic about his vision. Prepared for a discouraging comment, Poole told his idea to fellow-U2 enthusiast Holsopple, who unexpectedly replied, “That works. You want me to be your music director?”

“It took collaboration with Jerry to have it happen,” Poole said, noting they use the title of creators to describe their production roles. “We aren’t using any other titles. This is in keeping with the spirit of U2 who shares all their creative rights and credits.”

 Contacting U2

In January 2020, Holsopple and Poole chose 22 songs they wanted to include and then form the text around the music. They sent their proposal — including a script draft with music selections identified, as well as information about 91����Ƶ’s mission—to U2’s publishing company, Universal Music Publishing. Eventually, they were put in contact with a band representative who said, “The band is going to have to review your proposal extensively.” With an upcoming tour scheduled, that meant a long turn-around time. However, in less than two weeks, on March 16, a rep emailed  to grant permission to use all 22 songs requested.

Royalties could have been exorbitant, but U2 asked a bare minimum, Poole said, far less than most staged productions. 

Adapting the script and casting

Poole and Holsopple developed the adaptation in summer 2020. They cut archaic scenes, while keeping favorite Shakespearean quotes and the story intact. U2’s songs chosen include “Love and Peace or Else,” “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For,” “Grace,” and “Sunday Bloody Sunday.”

The creators brought in local band Prince Bellerose to perform live:  Valentin Prince, Daniel Bellerose and Joseph Harder ’20. In addition to 91����Ƶ students, they cast community member Stan Swartz ’87 and 91����Ƶ faculty members James Richardson, assistant professor of music, and Shannon Dove, theater tech director.

The play revolves around Friar Laurence, portrayed by Dove, Holsopple said. “The Friar is like Bono, the storyteller. In a way, it’s the friar’s confession in his attempt to change the world and his failure.”

 Dove was a U2 fan as a teen, and as “one of the older members of the cast,” owned a cassette copy of their first album. Aspiring to also sing rock and roll, he said, as a baritone, “the holy grail to me at the time was someday being able to hit that note…you know that one note in ‘With or Without You.’”

The songs function as soliloquies. Sophomore Greta Schrag said they provide her character, Juliet, an inner monologue for the motivation of her actions. “She gets to have a say in what happens to her and gets to share how she feels about it with the audience,” said Schrag, a political science and sociology major.

With women taking on the roles of the Capulet and Montague boys, Poole said, “there’re lots of gender bending, which works well in Shakespeare and with our vision for this show.”

Video projections created by Holsopple and VACA students, Poole said, “add a broader perspective to the piece, connecting it to contemporary events.”

Making a change

With Christian world views of hope, joy, love and peace embedded in both the script and U2’s lyrics, the creators and cast made an intention for the audience.

“We communicate to the audience, and they go out and make positive changes,” Poole said. “They go out and make things better.”

Senior Andrew Stoltzfus, a nursing major with a minor in theater, who will portray Romeo, wants the audience to feel the full tragedy of the play, he said, “the horror of what humans do to each other and to feel resolved to join in the “rebellion” against violence.”

“I hope they’ll realize the depth and impact love can have on any circumstance,” said Schrag.  “Love is power, and it is stronger and more effective than hate.”

Ticket prices for adults are $15; Senior (65+), non-91����Ƶ students, $12; 91����Ƶ faculty/staff, $12; 91����Ƶ and Bridgewater students, $6. Discounts are available for groups of ten or more. Tickets are available online through 91����Ƶ’s Box Office online at or by calling 540-432-4582 between 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. weekdays. Because of the intensity of the production, it is not suitable for children under age 14. Face masks are required.

Thanks to our sponsors

CAST

Romeo: Andrew Stoltzfus

Juliet: Greta Schrag

Friar Laurence: Shannon Dove

Nurse: Clara Bush

Mercutio: Elizabeth Eby

Benvolio: Anna Hoover

Tybalt: Isaac Longacre

Paris:  Matt Hevener

Lord Montague:  James Richardson

Lady Montague: Ani Beitzel

Montague Boy/Balathasar: Molly Piwonka

Montague Boy/Police: Emma Nord

Montague Boy: Andrew Burks

Lord Capulet: Stan Swartz

Lady Capulet: Evelyn Shenk

Capulet Boy/Servant: MacRae Richardson

Capulet Boy: Sophia Gott

Capulet Boy:  Alexis Lewis

Capulet Boy/Friar John: Adam Hoover

Prince: Joe Sietz

CREW

Creator: Justin Poole

Creator: Jerry Holsopple

Set Designer: Shannon Dove

Vocal Coach: James Richardson

Choreographer:  Ellie de Waal

Fight Choreographer: Wolf Sherrill

Costume Designer: Rachel Herrick

Lighting Designer: Robert Weaver

Assistant Director: Isaac Longacre

Stage Manager: Jareya Harder

Assistant Stage Manager: Alana Lovick

Theater Promotions: Anna Hoover

House Manager: Mikalya Pettus

Production Assistant: Ezrionna Prioleau

Production Assistant: Hailey Holcomb

Band: Prince Bellerose

Renaissance painters like Caravaggio depicted religious scenes in chiaroscuro: a stark contrast between dark and light.

Justin Poole, main performer and adapter of theatrical work for “The Gospel Project: A Theatrical Journey Through the Life of Jesus Christ,” will light his show in the same intense and dramatic style.

Two performances of “The Gospel Project,” a three-act adaptation of the life of Jesus Christ beginning at Christ’s baptism and ending with the resurrection, will take place this weekend at Arts Incarnate, an outreach program of the Church of the Incarnation on North Liberty Street in Harrisonburg. Shows begin Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., with masks required.

Poole, theater program director and associate professor of theater at 91����Ƶ, adapted the text for the play from the four Gospels and performs all of the spoken roles in the two-person touring play, which was first performed at Asbury United Methodist Church in 2016.

Poole is accompanied by Perry Blosser, a local freelance and church musician who majored in music and Bible, religion and theology at 91����Ƶ. Blosser who will play a mandolin and different folk percussion instruments, including a djembe.

“The folky-ness is something new to this performance,” Blosser said.

The performance is semi-improvised, but the duo rehearsed the broad strokes of the performance several times. Poole said the Church of the Incarnation is a more intimate venue than previous iterations of the show.

“Perry adds a totally new dimension,” Poole said. “The inclusion of the folk instruments I think add sophistication to the show.”

While the spoken parts of the play don’t stray far from the texts of the Gospels, Poole said the performance is done in modern clothing and becomes more engrossing as the performance goes on.

Lindi Jenkins, director for music and the arts for Church of the Incarnation, connected with Blosser for this production.

“[Arts Incarnate brings] in art and artists to enhance the spiritual life of our community,” Jenkins said. “We seek to present beauty, truth and justice through the arts.”

The event is free and open to the public, and registration is requested at . Free tickets are also available at the door before the show.

“Shrek the Musical!” makes a triumphant comeback as 91����Ƶ’s (91����Ƶ) first in-person arts event open to the public since the beginning of the pandemic. 

Four outdoor, socially distanced performances will be held on two consecutive weekends. The Saturday performances, April 10 and April 17, are open to faculty, staff, students and parents.

The Friday performances for the general public on April 9 and 16 are sold out.

All performances begin at 7:30 p.m. on Thomas Plaza.

Visit /box-office/ to make your free reservation. All audience members are required to wear masks and to physically distance while congregated on 91����Ƶ grounds. Additional Covid safety measures are also in place and will be communicated to our patrons upon arrival. Please bring a lawn chair or blanket for your own outdoor seating.

“As you watch our zany, high energy, and off-beat production, have fun. Also, ask yourself how you can more fully embrace your neighbor,” said Professor Justin Poole, director of the musical.

The production, which includes a large cast of 91����Ƶ students from across all majors and some community members as well, is based on the popular DreamWorks animated films.

“Shrek the Musical!” was written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright David Lindsay-Abaire, with music by Tony Award winner Jeanine Tesori. The Broadway show received eight Tony nominations, including Best Musical. 91����Ƶ Theater had originally staged the show last year, until COVID-19 wreaked havoc on live performances everywhere. 

Poole brought back some of the original cast, added a few newcomers, and re-choreographed the show as a COVID-safe, outdoor extravaganza. 

“It is the largest stationary stage area I have ever worked on, which has been a blast as a director,” he said. “The actors have so much ground to cover and they do it with huge, bombastic movements that make the whole piece feel like a living cartoon. It’s so much fun!”

Junior Joe Seitz returns to the show as the iconic wisecracker “Donkey.” 

“After a year with no theater, I think both the cast and the community are thoroughly excited to finally be back at it,” Seitz said. “Every person involved with this show is bringing so much energy and I think this is one of the most fun shows we’ve put on in years.”

Sarah Regan ’18 has had her hands full, as she’s both running the box office and acting in the show. Regan is the assistant director of auxiliary services when she’s not playing “Thelonius” and “Mama Elf.” In preparation for a public health-conscious show, Regan used photos and measurements of the front lawn to create a seating layout that will safely accommodate 200 people. 

“Shrek has been an incredible source of life for me in the past year, as I believe it has been for so many of our cast and crew,” Regan said. “We’re hoping that this show can be a gift to the community after a long hard year full of disappointments.”

For live theater aficionados who were not fast enough to the box office to see this spring’s production, Poole says the theater department has already laid plans for next season: “We are hitting the ground running with an exciting, action-packed theater season featuring two original shows and 91����Ƶ’s first fully staged opera!”

Thanks to our sponsor:

In response to concerns about COVID-19, all performances of “Shrek the Musical” have been rescheduled. If you have already purchased tickets, your tickets will be valid for the corresponding rescheduled performance dates outlined below. For more information about 91����Ƶ’s COVID-19 action plan, visit .  

March 27, 7 p.m. has been moved to April 17, 7 p.m.

March 28, 2 p.m. has been moved to April 18, 2 p.m. 

April 2, 7 p.m. has been moved to April 23, 7 p.m.

April 3, 7 p.m. has been moved to April 24, 7 p.m.

April 4, 2 p.m. has been moved to April 25, 2 p.m.

April 4, 7 p.m. has been moved to April 25, 7 p.m. 

If you already have your tickets, there is NO need to exchange them for tickets with the rescheduled date.  Tickets with the original date OR the corresponding rescheduled date, will both be accepted.

If you are unable to attend your rescheduled performance, or have other concerns, you may choose to consider your purchase as a donation to the 91����Ƶ Theater Program, or refunds are available by contacting the box office via email: lynn.veurink@emu.edu.

In the case that the COVID-19 situation worsens, performances may be postponed and rescheduled for another future date TBD and will be communicated to you accordingly. 

How can a green ogre, a girlie princess and fairytale characters teach kindness and acceptance of others? Through a rollicking, high-spirited musical, that’s how. Eastern Mennonite’s “Shrek the Musical” is fun, humorous and wacky while addressing issues that challenge our world today.

 “As you watch our zany, high energy, and off-beat production, have fun. Also, ask yourself how you can more fully embrace your neighbor,” said Justin Poole, theater program director and professor of theater.

“Shrek the Musical,” sponsored by and , runs April 17-25  in the Mainstage Theater, University Commons.

Based on the popular animated films, DreamWorks’ “Shrek the Musical” was written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright David Lindsay-Abaire, with music by Tony Award winner Jeanine Tesori. The Broadway show received eight Tony nominations, including Best Musical.

Fun for all ages

The show’s themes of self-acceptance and unity in diversity align with 91����Ƶ’s core practices of inclusion and community building, Poole said, and “are much needed in these divisive and uncertain times.”

The musical, suitable for all ages,  can be enjoyed for entertainment, Poole said,  or audiences “can pull deeper meaning from it. Ideally, they can do all of this at the same time.”

Junior Sarah Ressler portrays Princess Fiona. Ressler, an elementary education and special education major, appreciates how the show presents the sensitive themes “in a way that is approachable to children,” she said. “It’s been fun to portray Fiona, because throughout the show, she learns to accept others that are outcast and different, but she also learns to accept herself.”

During an early rehearsal, a challenging scene was changed in the ensemble’s interpretation of the dialogue, said Assistant Director Anali Martin, a senior English/writing studies major. “From being about alienating and other-ing to inclusive and welcoming…. the emotion that the cast brings to each scene, melding comedy with sensitive topics, has been incredible.”

Large cast brings story to life

Theater is at its best, Poole said, “when it tells compelling stories that we can all relate to. Theater can break down divides between people by fostering empathy.”

Ressler and Martin agree.

“I love using stories to teach morals and life lessons,” Ressler said, adding that as an educator,  she plans “to incorporate storytelling as a way of engaging students with real issues.”

 “Storytelling and listening to others’ stories is crucial to mutual understanding,” said Martin.

Telling the story of Shrek, Fiona, Donkey and our favorite storybook characters is no small feat. Huge puppets, moving sets, colorful costumes and a large cast takes organization and teamwork. Good collaboration is key, Poole said, “especially on a show of this scale. I am lucky to work with such a professional, talented and dedicated group of collaborators.”

For Martin, observing how Poole and the production staff work together has been a “huge learning opportunity for me,” she said, “just taking it all in, watching the process of creating a musical from all sides.”

The musical’s cast also includes younger actors from the community.

“They work just as hard as the college students,” Martin said. “The cast is really great at working together, so the chaos backstage is minimized thanks to people looking out for each other.”

The cast and crew of “Shrek the Musical” are dedicated to producing a high quality university production, Poole said. “I hope that entire families come, laugh together, and go home more willing to accept themselves and others, flaws and all.”

Ticket prices for adults are $15 ($17 at the door); Senior, non-91����Ƶ student/child, $12 ($14 at the door)  91����Ƶ faculty/staff, $12; 91����Ƶ and Bridgewater students, $6. Discounts are available for groups of ten or more. Tickets are available online through 91����Ƶ’s Box Office online at  or by calling 540-432-4582 between 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. weekdays.

Cast

• Isaac Longacre: Shrek
• Sarah Ressler: Fiona
• Joe Seitz: Donkey
• Lucas Wenger: Farquaad
• Vienna Poole: 7-Year-Old Fiona
• Miriam Kurtz: 7-Year-Old Shrek
• Elizabeth Eby:  Dragon/Three Blind Mice/Duloc Dancer
• Stephanie Kniss: Pinocchio/Happy People
• Avery Trinh: Gingy/Happy People/Duloc Dancer
• Anna Ressler: Mama Ogre/Teen Fiona/Three Blind Mice/Duloc Dancer
• Anna Hoover: Three Blind Mice/Queen Lilian/Wicked Witch/Duloc Dancer
• Philip Krabill: King Harold/Knight 2/Pig 2/Guard/Duloc Dancer
• Mac Lehman: Pig 3/Happy People
• Sam Warner: Papa Bear, Duloc Dancer, Ensemble
• Andrew Stoltzfus: Big Bad Wolf/Knight 1/Pied Piper/Guard/Duloc Dancer/ Papa Ogre
• Josh Overacker: Peter Pan/Knight 4/Happy People/Guard
• Partha Roy: Sugar Plum Fairy/Happy People/Guard/Greeter
• Christian Stutzman: Pig 1/Happy People/Captain of the Guard
• Lindsay Acker: Fairy Godmother/Happy People
• Dominique Kroeger: Mama Bear/Guard
• Molly Piwonka: White Rabbit/Happy People
• Yoel Bobadilla: Mad Hatter/Guard/Thelonius
• Westley Hancock: Guard

Children’s Ensemble

• Kezia Wettig: Humpty Dumpty
• Virginia Natale: Baby Bear
• Maren Bert: Elf
• Chin-En: Ugly Duckling
• Miriam Kurtz, Vienna Poole: Puppeteers

Cameo Roles

• Anali Martin: Guard
• Eric Natale: Dwarf (Farquaad’s Dad)
• Brian Burkholder: Bishop

Crew

• Justin Poole: Director
• Anali Martin: Assistant Director
• Jareya Harder: Assistant Stage Manager
• Bradley Lehman: Musical Director
• Geneval Knight: Assistant Musical Director
• Heidi King: Vocal Coach
• Ellie de Waal: Choreographer
• Rachel Herrick: Costume Designer
• Shannon Dove and Esther Tian’s first-semester Intro to Engineering Class: Scene Designers
• Robert Weaver: Lighting Designer
• Ezrionna Prioleau and Hailey Holcomb: Production Assistants
• Jason Misterka: Sound Technician

“While actors in dark clothes manipulate the props and set pieces under black light, the audience sees the effects created right before their eyes,” said Poole, assistant professor of theater. “This production focuses on the joy of storytelling. It relies on our preexisting knowledge of Disney’s magical formulas, taking the musical in unexpected directions while remaining faithful to the script.”

.

Performances are scheduled in the Main Stage Theater March 22, 28, 29 and 30 at 7 p.m.; March 23 and 24 at 3 p.m.; and March 26 at 10 a.m. The performance is approximately 2.5 hours, with intermission.

Innovative staging

Disney’s film “Beauty and the Beast” is a favorite of Poole’s and his three children, he said. Attempting a production of the Broadway musical based on the 1991 film wasn’t in his plans until Braydon Hoover, associate director of development who has been known to “trod the boards” one or two times, made the suggestion.

However, mounting an original Broadway Disney musical at a small liberal arts college takes some innovative solutions.

“We are using found objects and recycled materials to create the props, costumes and set pieces,” Poole said. Cast and crew would also need to let go “of our expectations of what a Disney show should look like.”  

Interdisciplinary recruitments

Poole recruited faculty and students from other departments. Anna Westfall, assistant professor of art, designed the production’s shadow puppets. Westfall has worked on costumes and props for other theater productions, she said. “However, I have never made shadow puppets. My past designs were sculptural, so this process was new to me.”

Her shadow puppet creations include three humans, a beast, a tree, an interior of a castle, and several wolves. “I attempted to keep my designs simple so that people would recognize the story,” Westfall said.

Esther Tian, associate professor and director of 91����Ƶ’s engineering program, and the first-year engineering class worked with theater tech director Shannon Dove on set design and construction.

“This production requires a flexible, fast-moving set,” Poole said. “Our engineering students have delivered something fitting and unique.”

Poole also sought out sophomore Freddie Monahan, member of the student art club, to build what he praised as “visually interesting and user-friendly” props.

Cast includes community members

In addition to 91����Ƶ’s actors, Poole cast students from Eastern Mennonite High School, Waterman Elementary and the Shenandoah Valley Children’s Choir. “It truly takes a village, or a community, to create a theater production,” he said.

Junior Gwen Mallow, a secondary English education major, is Poole’s assistant director. One of her duties is working with stage manager Amber Hooper “trying to make sure that everyone is safe and happy,” Mallow said. “It is really fun having students from both EMHS and other elementary schools in the area. The kids are kind, enthusiastic and natural actors.”

Mallow also leads sectional rehearsals when needed and takes down Poole’s notes to keep rehearsals running smoothly without stopping. “But mostly I’m providing a second opinion when Justin is unsure about an aesthetic choice,” she said.

First year peace and development major Elizabeth Eby was cast as the lead character, Belle. Eby said that as a child, she looked up to the character of Belle for her kindness and strength. “It’s also great how strong and independent she is.”

Eby shares Belle’s love for books, but believes to develop the character fully, their differences need to be included. “Physicality has been really helpful in doing that as I try to walk like a Disney princess,” Eby said. “I also just say my lines in different voices until I think something works for the character, rather than how I normally speak.”

With all these contributions and collaborations from the 91����Ƶ community and beyond, Poole is looking forward to opening night. Bringing together veteran actors and children in their first productions with engineering students and artists working in new media, the collaborative effort  is symbolic of his vision of theater’s creative potential.

“I like the idea of 91����Ƶ theater being a place where people of all ages can gather and enjoy a great production as a community,” he said. “This show fits that bill. I hope to do more productions that have this family appeal. It also resonates with the students, who grew up on the original film.”

There is already a great response to the show, he added – and tickets are going fast!

Reserved tickets are $15 for adults ($17 at the door), $12 for faculty/staff, seniors and non-91����Ƶ students ($14 at the door), and $6 for 91����Ƶ and Bridgewater College students. Tickets are available at 91����Ƶ’s Box Office, located in the University Commons. Box office hours are Monday-Friday, 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. or call 540-432-4582.

CHARACTERS

BELLE: Elizabeth Eby, first-year, Goshen, Indiana

BEAST: Andrew Stoltzfus, first-year, Harrisonburg, Virginia

GASTON: Isaac Longacre, first-year, Quakertown, Pennsylvania

LEFOU: Richard Vo, junior, Front Royal, Virginia

COGSWORTH/CHORUS: Avery Trinh, first-year, Columbia, Maryland

LUMIERE/CHORUS: Joseph Seitz, first-year, Harrisonburg, Virginia

MRS. POTTS/CHORUS: Sarah Ressler, sophomore, Kidron, Ohio

CHIP/CHORUS: Anna Ressler, junior, Kidron, Ohio

BABETTE: Mary Fairfield, community student, Staunton, Virginia

MADAME DE LA GRAND BOUCHE/CHORUS: Leah Wenger, junior, Harrisonburg, Virginia

MAURICE/CHORUS: Lucas Wenger, sophomore, Harrisonburg, Virginia

MONSIEUR D’ARQUE/CHORUS: Tyler Goss, graduate student, Mechanicsville, Virginia

CHORUS: Ariel Barbosa, junior, Baltimore, Maryland; Emily Bennett, first-year, Landsdale, Pennsylvania; Dan Hackman, junior, Lansdale, Pennsylvania; Jackie Hieber, graduate student, Bridgewater, Virginia; Ross Kirkdorffer, first-year, Harrisonburg, Virginia; Stephanie Kniss, first-year, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania; Alexa Lahr, first-year, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Anali Martin, junior, Cary, North Carolina; Johnny G Prioleau III, junior, Chesterfield, Virginia; MacRae Richardson, community student, Dayton, Virginia; Partha Roy, first-year, Takoma Park, Maryland; Jay Sheppard, first-year, Beaverdam, Virginia

CHILDREN’S CHORUS: Zevvi Misterka, Virginia Natale, Vienna Poole, George Richardson, Jack Richardson, Katherine Richardson, Kezia Wettig, Lewis Yoder.

CREW

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: Gwen Mallow, junior, Quicksburg, Virginia

ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER: Jareya Harder, first-year, Mountain Lake, Minnesota

STAGE MANAGER: Amber Hooper, junior, Mechanicsville, Virginia

PROPS MANAGER: Freddie Monahan, sophomore, Richmond, Virginia

SOUND BOARD OPERATOR, PROPS MANAGER & HAIR/MAKE-UP ASST: Ezrionna Prioleau, graduate student, Chesterfield, Virginia

COSTUME LOFT MANAGER & HAIR/MAKE UP DESIGNER: Hailey Holcomb, graduate student, Woodbridge, Va.

DIRECTOR and PRODUCER: Justin Poole

MUSICAL DIRECTOR: James Richardson

PIANIST: Jim Clemens

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR & SET DESIGNER: Shannon Dove

FIRST-YEAR ENGINEERING STUDENT DESIGNERS: Wade Banks, Jonas Beachy, Catherine Hammond, Jacob Horsley, Malachi Malone, Maarten McDonald, Andrew Schunn, Joshua Sheppard, Laura Troyer, Tessa Waidelich, Jason Wong

COSTUME DESIGNER: Rachel E. Herrick

DANCE CHOREOGRAPHER: Jerusha “Ellie” de Waal

LIGHTING DESIGNER: Robert Weaver

SHADOW PUPPET DESIGNER: Anna Westfall

“While actors in dark clothes manipulate the props and set pieces under black light, the audience sees the effects created right before their eyes,” said Poole, assistant professor of theater. “This production focuses on the joy of storytelling. It relies on our preexisting knowledge of Disney’s magical formulas, taking the musical in unexpected directions while remaining faithful to the script.”

.

Performances are scheduled in the Main Stage Theater March 22, 28, 29 and 30 at 7 p.m.; March 23 and 24 at 3 p.m.; and March 26 at 10 a.m. The performance is approximately 2.5 hours, with intermission.

Innovative staging

Disney’s film “Beauty and the Beast” is a favorite of Poole’s and his three children, he said. Attempting a production of the Broadway musical based on the 1991 film wasn’t in his plans until Braydon Hoover, associate director of development who has been known to “trod the boards” one or two times, made the suggestion.

However, mounting an original Broadway Disney musical at a small liberal arts college takes some innovative solutions.

“We are using found objects and recycled materials to create the props, costumes and set pieces,” Poole said. Cast and crew would also need to let go “of our expectations of what a Disney show should look like.”  

Interdisciplinary recruitments

Poole recruited faculty and students from other departments. Anna Westfall, assistant professor of art, designed the production’s shadow puppets. Westfall has worked on costumes and props for other theater productions, she said. “However, I have never made shadow puppets. My past designs were sculptural, so this process was new to me.”

Her shadow puppet creations include three humans, a beast, a tree, an interior of a castle, and several wolves. “I attempted to keep my designs simple so that people would recognize the story,” Westfall said.

Esther Tian, associate professor and director of 91����Ƶ’s engineering program, and the first-year engineering class worked with theater tech director Shannon Dove on set design and construction.

“This production requires a flexible, fast-moving set,” Poole said. “Our engineering students have delivered something fitting and unique.”

Poole also sought out sophomore Freddie Monahan, member of the student art club, to build what he praised as “visually interesting and user-friendly” props.

Cast includes community members

In addition to 91����Ƶ’s actors, Poole cast students from Eastern Mennonite High School, Waterman Elementary and the Shenandoah Valley Children’s Choir, Poole said. “It truly takes a village, or a community, to create a theater production.”

Junior Gwen Mallow, an secondary English education major, is Poole’s assistant director. One of her duties is working with stage manager Amber Hooper “trying to make sure that everyone is safe and happy,” Mallow said. “It is really fun having students from both EMHS and other elementary schools in the area. The kids are kind, enthusiastic and natural actors.”

Mallow also leads sectional rehearsals when needed and takes down Poole’s notes to keep rehearsals running smoothly without stopping. “I also take over sectional rehearsals when needed,” she said, “but mostly I’m providing a second opinion when Justin is unsure about an aesthetic choice.”

First year peace and development major Elizabeth Eby was cast as the lead character, Belle. Eby said that as a child, she looked up to the character of Belle for her kindness and strength. “It’s also great how strong and independent she is.”

Eby shares Belle’s love for books, but believes to develop the character fully, their differences need to be included. “Physicality has been really helpful in doing that as I try to walk like a Disney princess,” Eby said. “I also just say my lines in different voices until I think something works for the character, rather than how I normally speak.”

With all these contributions and collaborations from the 91����Ƶ community and beyond, Poole is looking forward to opening night. Bringing together veteran actors and children in their first productions with engineering students and artists working in new media, the collaborative effort  is symbolic of his vision of theater’s creative potential.

“I like the idea of 91����Ƶ theater being a place where people of all ages can gather and enjoy a great production as a community,” he said. “This show fits that bill. I hope to do more productions that have this family appeal. It also resonates with the students, who grew up on the original film.”

There is already a great response to the show, he added – and tickets are going fast!

Reserved tickets are $15 for adults ($17 at the door), $12 for faculty/staff, seniors and non-91����Ƶ students ($14 at the door), and $6 for 91����Ƶ and Bridgewater College students. Tickets are available at 91����Ƶ’s Box Office, located in the University Commons. Box office hours are Monday-Friday, 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. or call 540-432-4582.

CHARACTERS

BELLE: Elizabeth Eby, first-year, Goshen, Indiana

BEAST: Andrew Stoltzfus, first-year, Harrisonburg, Virginia

GASTON: Isaac Longacre, first-year, Quakertown, Pennsylvania

LEFOU: Richard Vo, junior, Front Royal, Virginia

COGSWORTH/CHORUS: Avery Trinh, first-year, Columbia, Maryland

LUMIERE/CHORUS: Joseph Seitz, first-year, Harrisonburg, Virginia

MRS. POTTS/CHORUS: Sarah Ressler, sophomore, Kidron, Ohio

CHIP/CHORUS: Anna Ressler, junior, Kidron, Ohio

BABETTE: Mary Fairfield, community student, Staunton, Virginia

MADAME DE LA GRAND BOUCHE/CHORUS: Leah Wenger, junior, Harrisonburg, Virginia

MAURICE/CHORUS: Lucas Wenger, sophomore, Harrisonburg, Virginia

MONSIEUR D’ARQUE/CHORUS: Tyler Goss, graduate student, Mechanicsville, Virginia

CHORUS: Ariel Barbosa, junior, Baltimore, Maryland; Emily Bennett, first-year, Landsdale, Pennsylvania; Dan Hackman, junior, Lansdale, Pennsylvania; Jackie Hieber, graduate student, Bridgewater, Virginia; Ross Kirkdorffer, first-year, Harrisonburg, Virginia; Stephanie Kniss, first-year, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania; Alexa Lahr, first-year, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Anali Martin, junior, Cary, North Carolina; Johnny G Prioleau III, junior, Chesterfield, Virginia; MacRae Richardson, community student, Dayton, Virginia; Partha Roy, first-year, Takoma Park, Maryland; Jay Sheppard, first-year, Beaverdam, Virginia

CHILDREN’S CHORUS: Zevvi Misterka, Virginia Natale, Vienna Poole, George Richardson, Jack Richardson, Katherine Richardson, Kezia Wettig, Lewis Yoder.

CREW

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: Gwen Mallow, junior, Quicksburg, Virginia

ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER: Jareya Harder, first-year, Mountain Lake, Minnesota

STAGE MANAGER: Amber Hooper, junior, Mechanicsville, Virginia

PROPS MANAGER: Freddie Monahan, sophomore, Richmond, Virginia

SOUND BOARD OPERATOR, PROPS MANAGER & HAIR/MAKE-UP ASST: Ezrionna Prioleau, graduate student, Chesterfield, Virginia

COSTUME LOFT MANAGER & HAIR/MAKE UP DESIGNER: Hailey Holcomb, graduate student, Woodbridge, Va.

DIRECTOR and PRODUCER: Justin Poole

MUSICAL DIRECTOR: James Richardson

PIANIST: Jim Clemens

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR & SET DESIGNER: Shannon Dove

FIRST-YEAR ENGINEERING STUDENT DESIGNERS: Wade Banks, Jonas Beachy, Catherine Hammond, Jacob Horsley, Malachi Malone, Maarten McDonald, Andrew Schunn, Joshua Sheppard, Laura Troyer, Tessa Waidelich, Jason Wong

COSTUME DESIGNER: Rachel E. Herrick

DANCE CHOREOGRAPHER: Jerusha “Ellie” de Waal

LIGHTING DESIGNER: Robert Weaver

SHADOW PUPPET DESIGNER: Anna Westfall

First-year nursing major Andrew Stoltzfus, for example, has never performed Shakespeare before and says it’s difficult to memorize lines, but he’s still “enjoying it immensely.”

The cast of 91����Ƶ’s fall production, “Measure for Measure,” rehearses with enthusiasm and dedication – a trademark of the university’s actors, says Professor Justin Poole, theater program director.

“[Shakespeare’s] plays pose so many compelling challenges, and they are open to dynamic conceptual adaptations,” Poole said. “’Measure for Measure’ has many rich themes that will resonate, such as abuses of power, the power of forgiveness, and apparently conflicting loyalties to God and family.”

Performances will be in the Lee Eshleman Studio Theater Nov. 2, 3, 8, 9 and 10 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 4 at 3 p.m. A school matinee will be on Nov. 7 at 10 a.m. (Note the change from the date listed on the print calendar.)

Due to the subject matter, some material may not be appropriate for children under the age of 12.

Tragicomedy

“Measure for Measure” is set in Vienna where Duke Vincentio temporarily steps down from rule. As the moral depravity of his subjects reaches a breaking point, the Duke gives the seemingly virtuous Angelo control of the kingdom. Isabella, a woman pledged to the church, finds herself in a morally compromising situation that could have come out of the #MeToo headlines. Shakespeare’s relevant tragicomedy comes to life in a fast-paced and music-filled production.

“Measure for Measure” is a play Poole has wanted to stage for years at 91����Ƶ, he said. So when Marti Eads, professor of English, suggested it in response to the #MeToo movement, Poole said he needed “no convincing at all … it was a fantastic idea.”

Making the language their own

To learn and understand Shakespeare’s words, the actors’ preparations have included studies with No-Fear Shakespeare, which provides a modern English translation.

The language can be confusing, said Anna Ressler, a junior psychology major. “But once I understand what my lines mean, I can figure out where to put the emphasis and how to make the line flow and make sense. It is also helpful to ignore all the commas and line breaks and only pause where there is other punctuation. Justin frequently reminds us to do this.”

After memorizing his lines, Stoltzfus said, “I tweak how I express them to give off the intended meaning. Shakespeare takes a little growing used to, but after a while it all blends together nicely.”

Poole collaborates with his actors on their character interpretations. Freshman music major Isaac Longacre appreciates that flexibility.

“I love how nothing is set in stone,” he said. “During rehearsals we just go with the flow and try to see what works. If something doesn’t feel right, we can play around until we find what works for the scene. Along with this, my character, Lord Angelo, is very different than any other character I’ve played. I enjoy this, because it pushes me outside of my comfort zone.”

Blending elements

Poole adapted the play, omitting some characters, adding a Greek-like chorus, and blending elements from Greek and Roman tragedy and English morality plays, he said, adding that all were “big influences on Shakespeare as a playwright. This production makes those influences particularly apparent.”

The adaptation also includes setting the play in the late 19th century.

“The tensions between a creeping moral decadence and a decaying sense of Christian spirituality remind me of Vienna in the late 1800s through early 1900s,” said Poole, who has traveled extensively to the city. “For this reason the costumes, lighting, and staging are heavily influenced by Art Nouveau, aestheticism, and symbolism. Klimt and Mucha are the artists who provide the most direct inspiration.”

Composer Jim Clemen‘s original score is influenced by the music from that period and 91����Ƶ theater graduate Robert Weaver is providing mood-setting lighting, Poole said. “Rachel Herrick‘s costumes do a fantastic job of setting the tone. [Theater Tech Director] Shannon Dove‘s set resembles a bombed-out cathedral, as a metaphor for society’s loss of its connection to the church.”

Performing in the studio theater gives a greater intimacy between actors and audiences, Poole said. His staging allows the actors to weave in and out of the audience.

Poole refers to “Measure for Measure” as Shakespeare’s morality play about the dangers of lust.

“The issues raised in the play will particularly resonate with audiences today, but people have always dealt with these things,” he said. “I hope the audience will come away knowing that there are many ways to do Shakespeare, and that his plays can still surprise us as they connect to us in deep ways. I hope that the actors will have a new appreciation for Shakespeare and will understand the great rewards that come from performing in his plays.”

The performance is sponsored by Everence.

For tickets, visit the box office in the lower level of the University Commons or call 540-432-458, Monday-Friday, 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Cast and Crew

Isabella: Anna Ressler  (a junior from Kidron, Ohio)

Duke Vincentio: Andrew Stoltzfus  (a first-year from Harrisonburg, Virginia)

Angelo: Isaac Longacre (a first-year from Quakertown, Pennsylvania)

Claudio/Chorus: Yoel Bobadilla  (a junior from Lancaster, Pennsylvania)

Pompey/Chorus: Avery Trinh (a first-year from Columbia, Maryland)

Lucio/MistressOverdone/Chorus: Christian Stutzman  (a sophomore from Sugarcreek, Ohio)

Provost/Barnardine/Chorus: Jay Sheppard  (a first-year from Maidens, Virginia)

Mariana/Juliet/Chorus: Renata Loberg  (a graduate student from Salem, Oregon)

Composer: Jim Clemens

Set Designer: Shannon Dove

Costume Designer: Rachel Herrick

Stage Manager: Gwen Mallow (a junior from Quicksburg, Virginia)

Assistant Director: Joseph Seitz (a first-year from Harrisonburg, Virginia)

Lighting Designer: Robert Weaver

Assistant Stage Manager: Jareya Harder (a first-year from Mountain Lake, Minnesota)

Sound: Chris Runion (a sophomore from Broadway, Virginia)

Stage Crew: Alexa Lahr, Johnny Prioleau, Chris Runion, Jay Sheppard

Theater Promotions Assistant: Liz Marin (a junior from Harrisonburg, Virginia)

Costume Crew: Phil Yoder, Katya Mattichak

Poster Designer: Missy Mutterspruch

Costume Manager: Hailey Holcomb

Props Manager: Ezrionna Prioleau

Lighting Assistants: Jareya Harder and Liz Marin

The university’s theater department will perform the musical in April under the direction of professor Justin Poole and the music direction of Richardson. Performance dates are April 13-14, and April 19-21 at 7:30 p.m. and April 15 at 3 p.m. Tickets are available from the 91����Ƶ Box Office.

In the play, based on the Lee David Zlotoff film, lyrics and book by Fred Alley, and music and book by James Valq, a parolee named Percy relocates to a small Wisconsin town, where she works at Hannah’s Spitfire Grill. Hannah wants to sell the eatery, but with no buyers in sight, she and others decide to give it away in an essay contest.

It’s a story of “redemption, second chances, hope and coming to terms with the reality of a new community,” said Poole – and, Richardson adds, seeking forgiveness not only from others but also from oneself.

Poole and Richardson collaborated on 91����Ƶ’s 2014 production of Into the Woods. But while that performance was fantastical and “sprawling,” the single-set Spitfire feels more “gritty,” said Richardson – even as the small diner “represents the entire cosmos.”

Each character in the seven-person cast has “unique quirks” that make them feel “real,” said Poole. “They’re nuanced and they’re quirky and they’re – well, they’re just fun characters.”

Live musicians will accompany the actors with piano, violin, guitar, cello and accordion, said Richardson. The music, Poole said, is “down-home, classic American folk, sometimes with a Southern twang kind of vibe.”

Cast members range from seniors – Emma Roth and Clara Bush were lead players in 91����Ƶ’s fall production of Macbeth and, along with Spitfire’s Robert Weaver, acted in The 39 Steps earlier this year – to newer arrivals to 91����Ƶ theater.

Shelby, an “incredibly shy woman in her 30s,” will be played by sophomore Anna Ressler, a psychology major from Apple Creek, Ohio.

“Every character is dynamic,” Ressler said. “One of my favorite parts about my role is the way Shelby changes as a result of her interactions with Percy and others.”

Lucas Wenger, an undeclared first-year student from Harrisonburg, plays Caleb Thorpe, a man in his early 40s who had been a foreman but is now unemployed. “His old job is now obsolete, and he struggles to let go of the authority he once had and change with the times,” Wenger said.

But while he is “stuck in the past” and “could very easily fit into the stereotype of stern, patriarchal husband,” Thorpe is also “multidimensional” and “has moments of caring and trying to fix his mistakes.” Making the subtle moments that reveal Caleb’s humanity “stand out and characterize him just as much as his sternness” is a challenge, Wenger said.

�䲹����:������

• Townsperson: Yoel Bobadilla, junior, Lancaster, Pa.
• Hannah: Clara Bush, senior, Souderton, Pa.
• Percy: Elizabeth Martin, graduate, McGaheysville, Va.
• Effy: Emma Roth, senior, Goshen, Ind.
• Shelby: Anna Ressler, sophomore, Kidron, Ohio
• Eli/visitor: Robert Weaver, senior, Baltimore, Md.
• Joe: Sterling Webster, senior (James Madison University), Arlington, Va.
• Caleb: Lucas Wenger, freshman, Harrisonburg, Va.

Crew:

• Light board operator: Luis Longo, senior, Bristow, Va.
• Follow spot operator: Dylan Peachey, junior, Harrisonburg, Va.
• Sound board operator: Christopher Runion, freshman, Broadway, Va.
• Props master: Belen Yoder, senior, Harrisonburg, Va.

The performance is 8 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 13, at the MainStage Theater. Adults $10, 91����Ƶ student ID $5, 12 and under, free. To purchase tickets, click here.

The work is “a kinetic and reverent retelling of the Gospels that takes as its inspiration the Baroque art of Rembrandt and Caravaggio,” according to Poole.

It was commissioned in 2015 by Asbury’s and first debuted in February 2016.

“The Gospels still have the potential to challenge and surprise,” said Poole. “Showcasing these stories through a blend of sculptural poses, atmospheric lighting, and mood-setting music allows audiences to experience the life of Jesus with fresh eyes.”

Poole says the performance will appeal to “believers and doubters, church goers and non-churchgoers, theater enthusiasts and non-theater enthusiasts … I think what really comes through in this production is the humanity of Christ.”

Clemens performs on a variety of string, wind and percussion instruments during the production.

The creative team also includes Holly Labbe, director and costume designer; Noel Levin, lighting designer, working with the original design by David Vogel; Ezrionna Prioleau, stage manager; and Ethan Eldred and Hailey Holcomb, stage crew.

Then followed weeks of fast and furious fundraising to help cover travel expenses, planning to bring together the dispersed cast and crew, and now, in January 2018, rehearsing the Alfred Hitchcock spoof that Poole, also the production’s director, describes as “a mashup of Looney Tunes, Charlie Chaplin, Monty Python, and good old-fashioned spy thrillers.”

To raise funds and fine-tune their production, the ensemble offers three more performances (if you’re unable to attend, — we’re close to our fundraising goal!):

• Sunday, Jan. 7, at 7:30 p.m. in Lehman Auditorium;
• Monday, Jan. 8, at 10 a.m. in Lehman Auditorium;
• Sunday, Jan. 14, at 7:30 p.m. in the Mainstage Theater.

The suggested ticket price for these special benefit performances is $10. Tickets are available at the door (pay with cash or check only).

Only a small number of productions are selected to appear each year at the festival, said  Poole, a professor of . “The support from our community to enable us to travel to this festival has been amazing,” he added.

The Jan. 16-20 Region II festival includes university and college theater programs in Maryland, Delaware, Washington D.C., New Jersey, western New York, northern Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

The seven-character cast, which received a Certificate of Merit for Ensemble Acting from KCACTF in spring 2017, includes Esther Ajayi, Clara Bush, Collin Dutt, Abigail Greaser, Jeremiah Hines, Dylan Peachey, Emma Roth and Robert Weaver. Greaser and Bush also earned nominations for the Irene Ryan Acting Competition, and stage manager Ezrionna Prioleau was recommended for the KCACTF national competition in stage management. Also working on the play were Jim Clemens (musician), Ethan Eldred (sound), Holly Labbe (costumer), and David Vogel and Phil Grayson (lights and set).

KCACTF selects students each year for individual competitions. For example, for their work with the fall 2015 production of the musical “,” Derrick Turner was awarded the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival’s (KCACTF) Student Dramaturgy Award, Christian Parks and Myriam Aziz were invited to participate in the Irene Ryan Acting Competition, and Caitlin Randazzo in stage management.

The KCACTF boasts 18,000 student participants from college and university theater programs across the United States, and seeks to be “a catalyst in improving the quality of college theater.”