Posted 8:56 a.m. Friday, April 19, 2019
Classic restoration comedy mixes with glam rock at Toland Theatre.
Classic Restoration comedy mixes with glam rock at Toland Theatre
The UWL Department of Theatre Arts puts a new twist on the classic Restoration comedy, "The Country Wife," by William Wycherley. Director Greg Parmeter updates the fast-paced comedy of manners with inspiration from 1970s glam rock music and fashion to create a truly contemporary production of this 17th century classic. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. April 26-27 and May 1-4 and a 2 p.m. April 28 in Toland Theatre, Center for the Arts, 333 N. 16th St.
"The Country Wife" tells the story of William Horner, a notorious and lascivious man-about-town and his ingenious scheme for the rampant and mass seduction of the women of London society. By spreading the false rumor of his own impotence, he gains the sympathy of the husbands and, more importantly, free access to seduce their wives. Meanwhile, Mr. Pinchwife desperately tries to hide away his beautiful, innocent, new wife, Margery Pinchwife, from his much too eager friends. Will he succeed?
Popular for its lively characters and its double entendres, the bawdy comedy was originally vilified for immorality. Today, it is a stage favorite for its linguistic energy, sharp social satire and openness to varied interpretations.
IF YOU GO:
WHO: UW-La Crosse Department of Theatre Arts
WHAT: The Country Wife
WHERE: Toland Theatre, UW-La Crosse Center for the Arts, 333 N. 16th St.
WHEN: 7:30 p.m. April 26-27 and May 1-4 and 2 p.m. April 28
ADMISSION: $6 for UWL students, $16 for senior citizens and other students, and $18 for others. Purchase tickets at www.uwlax.edu/theatre-arts. In person and phone reservations begin April 22 at 608.785.8522 or the Box Office in the Center for the Arts. Box office hours are 1-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and one hour prior to each performance.
CAST: Alec Berchem, Carly Boles, Alexis Cimoch, Sarah Coppenbarger, Emily Farebrother, Steven Gage, Morgan Gates, Wriley Hoffner, Jasmine Kratt, Rachel Krause, Sarah Lambert, Peter Lee, Noah Mastaglio, and Evan Medd.
PRODUCTION TEAM: Greg Parmeter (Director), Hannah Steele (Stage Manager), Sarah Herkert (Sound Designer), Ben Golden (Lighting Designer), Megan Morey (Technical Director), Michelle Collyar (Costume Designer) David Skeef (Scenic Designer)