Gannon University’s Schuster Theatre will hold its annual Alex Clemente Fundraiser for Performing and Related Arts by hosting the musical “The Glorious Ones” 8 p.m. Friday. Additional performances will be held 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday.
“The Glorious Ones” is based on Francine Prose’s novel about the lives, love and art of the performers of an Italian commedia dell-arte troupe’s during Italy’s Renaissance. The performance contains intense adult content that may not be appropriate for all audience members.
The musical is directed by Almitra Clerkin, executive director of the Erie Playhouse and daughter of Clemente, and will include cast members of Gannon alumni such as Emily Cassano, the Rev. Shawn Clerkin, Nicole Dohoda, Zach Flock, Jared Lossie, Kate Morosky and Steve Ropski.
Alex Clemente attended Gannon as a student in the ‘60s, and then became a director and writer in Gannon’s Theatre Program. Clemente directed his adaptations of classics and numerous class theatre pieces. Also, Clemente taught students in the technical aspects of the theatre, where his commitment and humor were admired by everyone, said Britt Daehnke, director of the annual fund for academic excellence.
Daehnke said the Clemente Fund for Performing and Related Arts supports yearly theatre-related initiatives for current students.
Currently in the theatre department, all productions are open to theatre and non-theatre majors. More than 100 students are involved in the academic program and extracurricular activities, Daehnke said.
Tickets are $15, and all proceeds will support the Alex Clemente Fund for Performing and Related Arts.
