Ryan Lim and SBU Theater plan spring production of 'Story Theatre'

2015 Feb 23

The St. Bonaventure University theater program is preparing to present "Story Theatre" this spring in the Rigas Family Theater of the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts on campus. Show times are 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 25, through Saturday, March 28.

"Story Theatre," by Paul Sills, is a collection of different stories performed by actors who portray multiple roles in tales adapted from the Brothers Grimm and Aesop. The original Broadway production was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Play. Through the use of simple props, music and improvisational techniques, "Story Theatre" promises to bring an exciting, new and very funny performance to SBU Theater.

"I'm really excited to be a part of this," said Chernice Miller, production stage manager. "We haven't done a big comedy like this in a while, so that makes this production even more enjoyable."

Members of the cast agree.

Dakota Ward, a sophomore journalism and mass communication (J/MC) major from Depew, N.Y., is excited to perform in something that is a bit different than what SBU Theater has done in the past two years.

"This isn't your average fairytale," said Ward, "You have your normal (Disney) fairytales, but then there is this. I can't wait to see how this all comes together. We have a great cast, and I know that this show won't disappoint."

The large-scale and comedic tone of the production is sure to be a hit with the audience.

"We have a bigger cast than we have had in past years," said Miller, "I think the comedy of the show will bring in a wide range of audiences."

"Story Theatre" will feature on-stage faculty and student musicians from SBU's music program.

"Music is essential to this play," said Dr. Ed. Simone, the show's director. "The stories are punctuated by music, and the actors and musicians sometimes interact. It's really an exciting mix."

The production will feature Ryan Lim, a Chemistry major from Millville, N.J.

Faculty member Rebecca Misenheimer designed the set, costumes and lighting for "Story Theatre."

Simone said, "With each rehearsal, the cast grows more comfortable not only in their roles, but with each other. A strong ensemble is always our goal."

With this sort of dedication among the cast and the technical crew, "Story Theatre" is bound to be a hit. The Rigas Theater will be filled with laughter and audiences kept on their toes throughout the entire show as the cast and crew work magic with some very off-beat stories.

Tickets are $8 for the public and $6 for seniors, subscribers, students and SBU employees. For more information, or to reserve tickets, please call the Quick Center Box Office at 716-375-2494.

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