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PSU Theatre is known for high caliber performances and their upcoming production about a family comedy and drama is no exception.
Starting on Thursday, Apr, 22 and going until Sunday, Apr. 25, PSU Theatre will present their production of “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike” by Christopher Durang. The performance will be pre-recorded and streamed on demand for ticket holders. This is a virtual production only. Tickets are free with a PSU ID and $6 for the general public. Ticket holders will receive information about viewing. The production is directed by Megan Westhoff, Pitt State professor of communication.
“I love that we get to do theatre, even though it’s not in our usual way of having a live audience, yet,” Westhoff said. “Before the pandemic, I took for granted the opportunity to work in a room with a bunch of theatre artists who want to create a production together. We have had to adapt to new ways of doing things, but we have and are continuing to work through any challenges to overcome them.”
Westhoff said that this show was chosen because she thought some people needed to laugh.
“When I’m selecting a script, I consider what story needs to be told at the time,” Westhoff said. “The selection process began before the pandemic. I think I sensed we needed to laugh but didn’t realize how much that would be true until now. I like to mix it up for myself and I had just directed a drama and a family show before that, so I thought a farce would be a good choice. Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike was chosen because Christopher Durang’s plays tie both the serious and playful together. Three of the characters are siblings and the rivalries they experience can be both intense and funny. I love all six of the characters and how well-written and developed they are, so I knew it would be a fun challenge for the students to create the complex characters.”
The production will be recorded from the Dotty and Bill Miller Theatre at the Bicknell Family Center for the Arts. Many productions of theatre or performances of music have been broadcast or livestreamed during the COVID-19 pandemic from the performing arts center.
Westhoff also said that she wants this production to be a stress reliever for people.
“Laughter is medicine,” Westhoff said. “I hope the audience will take this moment to escape their lives, be able to laugh, and have fun at what we have worked to create.”
Westhoff also said that she enjoys working with the students that are involved in the production process.
“The students are dedicated and open to having fun,” Westhoff said. “At every rehearsal, I am thankful we get to work together to bring the show to life.”
