What is in store for the biology department this semester? Surely some interesting labs involving organisms and frogs. What is going on in the wild world of history? World War I, World War II and the Cold War! Think the English department could not possibly top a year of Chaucer and Shakespeare? Just wait until you see what Jonathan Swift has to say about his modest proposal! But the Department of Theatre and Dance will top it all with a season that will have everyone laughing, crying and begging for more.
This school year the Annie Russell Theatre will be showcasing three plays and one musical starring Rollins students in its 78th season. The first show that will be performed is Neil Simon’s “Biloxi Blues.” This play is semiautobiographical and revolves around the character Eugene who is drafted into WWII and is sent to Biloxi, Miss. for training. Not only will this show involve students, but will also star Associate Professor of Theatre Arts and Dance Eric Zivot in the role of Sgt. Merwin J. Toomey. Next in the season is the extremely popular “Grease.” For those who are unfamiliar with the John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John phenomenon, this musical focuses on the story of Sandy Dumbrowski and Danny Zuko who shared a fun and flirty summer romance. However, to both of their surprise, Sandy ends up attending Danny’s high school for their senior year and the two must figure out their relationship in a world of T-Birds and Pink Ladies.
The third show this year, “Letters to Sala,” is a new piece written by a Rollins alumna. This show takes place during WWII and follows a story told from letters found from the Holocaust.
Finally, a brand-new show, “It’s All Greek to Me,” will be closing the season. Created by our own Associate Professor of Theatre Arts and Dance David Charles, this improvised Greek tragedy incorporates the tragic elements and characters of the Greek playwrights while relating to a modern audience. In-depth research has gone into the tragic structure and the show is made up on the spot and creates a storyline that is easy to follow for the audience while still remaining true to the Greek playwrights. It promises to be a thrilling, unique show.
As you can see the four shows range from musical to drama to comedy to improv, covering many aspects of theatre in this exciting season. Whatever you do, do not miss the opportunity to see your friends and classmates peform.
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