At the end of April, the Gustavus theatre and dance department is set to put on a production of The Arabian Nights.
The play is a collection of Persian and Arabic stories told by the main character Sheherezade, a virgin who is to be killed by the rage-consumed King Shahryar. Instead of submitting to the will of her captor, Sheherezade charms the king with her enchanting stories.
“Through these stories she reminds the king of his innate goodness, compassion and the true sense of self that he has lost over the years,” Senior English and Theatre Major and cast member Andrea Gullixson said.
What makes this particular production of the play unique is the fact that although the play consists of over 60 characters, only 14 actors will be performing, which gives the actors ample opportunity to explore different roles. The play was also originally written for a stage similar to that of the Anderson Theatre at Gustavus.
“[The play] has something for absolutely everyone in it. There is death, murder, intense drama, loss, love, lust, sex, improvisation, comedy … and music,” Junior Theatre Major and cast member Christian DeMarais said.
Director Henry MacCarthy found enjoyment in this particular play largely due to the central themes and plot of the show. The theatre department focuses intently on performances for social justice, and this play contains many current issues and lessons that can be learned in that area.
“[The play] was challenging for me as a director … There was lots of room for exploration,” MacCarthy said. “It is both fun to watch and engaging.”
Aside from the many student actors, the performance also showcases the work of many other Gustavus student and faculty members. Costumes were designed by Senior Theatre Major Larissa Bregenzer, while sound design was brought to life by Adjunct Instructor of Theatre and Dance Terena Wilkins. Assistant Professor of Theatre and Dance Micah Maatman created the scenic and lighting designs. He was assisted by Junior Sociology and Anthropology and Theatre Major Kiki Mead and Junior Sociology and Anthropology Major Kelly Franzen. Junior Music Major Sam Grace worked on the music for the show.
“The set design is unreal. You are immediately transported to the quiet night sands of the Middle East … Sand covers the Anderson stage, and hundreds of stars illuminate the background,” DeMarais said.
Gullixson shares in her fellow cast member’s enthusiasm. “This production, which celebrates storytelling, is both a great reminder of why I started acting in the first place and why I enjoy theater for its power to communicate the stories of others to the audience.”
The show will run April 22, 23 and 24 at 8:00 p.m., in addition to the matinee performance on April 25 at 2:00 p.m. All performances will take place in Anderson Theatre.
Tickets for the show are available for purchase on the Gustavus website or by telephone at (507)-933-7590. Tickets cost $9 for adults, $6 for students and senior citizens and are free to all Gustavus students and staff with an ID. They can also be purchased one hour before the show at the box office.