TORONTO, October 31, 2002 -- Theatre @ York's second production of the season, Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill’s Threepenny Opera, directed by Sonia Norris, opens November 12 at York University.
An inspired triumph of musical theatre, Threepenny Opera is a seductively entertaining yet pointed social critique of a corrupt Germany in the period between the World Wars. This savage satire had the two writers exiled by the Nazis, but went on to become a classic worldwide.
First performed in Berlin in 1928, Brecht’s text is both sardonic and brittle. He creates an dishonourable, seedy world of beggars, thieves, prostitutes and opportunists in which relationships are precariously changeable. Betrayal is the only constant as new alliances form among the roster of dubious characters. The ethical void is manifested in the play’s infamous central character, gang leader "Mack the Knife".
"What ultimately keeps us alive amidst the fear and confusion of the world we live in that promises us much, but often delivers so little?" asks director Norris. "Many people are dealing with the same feelings of powerlessness, fear and rage explored in Threepenny Opera. Considering the uncertainty of the world we live in now, I think the play is just as
relevant to audiences today as it was when it was written."
Norris trained as an actor at The Vancouver Playhouse Acting School, at the Ecole Jacques Lecoq in Paris, Ecole Philippe Gaulier in London (UK), and at California’s Dell’Arte School of Physical Theatre. She has been performing and more recently directing for over 16 years both in Canada and abroad. Currently, she is pursuing an MFA in Directing at York University where she also teaches in the undergraduate Theatre program.
Theatre @ York productions showcase the talents of students in York's Theatre Department. The cast and crew for Threepenny Opera are fourth-year acting and production students. This production spotlights the talents of Leslie Wright, set and properties design; costumes by Tasha Blair; and lighting by Siobhan Sleath.
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Where: Joseph G. Green Studio Theatre, Centre for Film and Theatre
When:
Previews: Sun. Nov. 10 & Mon. Nov. 11, 7:30 pm
Opening: Tues Nov. 12, 7:30 pm
Run: Tues Nov. 12 through Sat. Nov. 16, 7:30 pm with matinees Wed. Nov. 13 & Fri. Nov. 15, 1:00 pm
Tickets:
Sunday Preview: Pay-What-You-Can
Monday Preview: $5
General Admission: $12, Students/Seniors $8
Group: $5 each
Box Office: 416-736-5172 ext. 3
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For further information, please contact:
| Nathalie-Roze Fischer |
| Communications, Faculty of Fine Arts |
|
York University |
| 416-736-2100 ext. 20421 |
| nfischer@yorku.ca |
