Fringe Fest Erie 2016 continues with the upcoming student production of “Lazarus Laughed.”
The play will serve as Gannon University’s main stage entry into Fringe Fest.
“Lazarus Laughed” was written by the well- known American playwright, Eugene O’Neill, in 1925.
Known as one of his most innovative and unusual plays, the production is a powerful exploration of the events proceeding the raising of Lazarus from the dead by Jesus, and the lives that were touched following this.
Michael Fujito, who will be working the sound board for the production, said “Lazarus Laughed” is much different from other plays that would normally be performed at the Schuster Theatre.
“It is an imaginative play written by a contemporary playwright in the form of an ancient Greek play,” he said.
“I find the use of the chorus physicality and stage combat intriguing and I think anyone who sees this would think the same.”
Auditions for the production occurred in December.
Cast members include Roman Denisyuk (Lazarus), Kendra Walker (Mirian), Chase Miles (Caligula), Allie Leng (Pompeia), Megan Hamm (Flavius), Michael Haas (Tiberius), Chad Cloonan (Crassus), Tom Barton (Orthodox Jew/Chorus), Karalyn Headley (Marcellus/Chourus), Stephen Haywiser (Centurion/Chorus), Harshal Mehta (Guard/Chorus) and Bethany Lewis (Chorus).
The production will be directed and choreographed by Alaina Manchester, visiting professor of theatre.
Haywiser said Manchester is incredibly gifted at leading a group of cast members and helping them figure out their characters physically and psychologically.
“She has helped people gain insight in terms of who their character is and how they should bring him to life,” he said.
According to the Schuster Theatre Facebook page, audience members will leave the performance questioning their faith and the strength of conviction in the shadow of tyranny and doubt.
Performances will be held at the Schuster Theatre Mainstage at 8 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, as well as 2 p.m. Sunday.
Admission is $7 for the public and free for all Gannon faculty, staff and students with a valid ID.
For more information on upcoming Schuster Theatre events, visit the theatre’s Facebook page or its website at www.gannon.edu/schustertheatre.
KATE ROBB
[email protected]