Theater department performs 'Eurydice'

By Jessica LaCanne

Arts and Entertainment Editor

The Saint Mary’s University theater department will be performing the play “Eurydice” beginning Thursday, Nov. 11.

Dr. Steven Bouler, director of “Eurydice,” said the play is based on the myth of Orpheus and his wife Eurydice, who dies on their wedding day. According to Bouler, the play is told from Eurydice’s point of view and is a “modern interpretation of the myth.”

The play focuses on a basic love story, said Bouler, and is about loss and memory. Bouler described the play as “emotionally charged.” Sarah Ruhl, author of the play, introduces Eurydice’s father in the play, said Bouler. This addition shows the relationship between father and daughter and what happens when the daughter marries, Bouler said. “It is a beautiful play,” said Bouler.

The location of the performance is also interesting, said Bouler. The play will be performed in the studio on the second floor of the Page Theater. Bouler described the play as a “lab series,” which is more demanding of the audience, who will be doing unexpected things.

Freshman Allison Shaffer plays the role of Eurydice. Shaffer described her character as “appreciative of books” and “a thinker.” Eurydice is young and in love, said Shaffer.

“I love how different it is,” said Shaffer, who described the play as experimental and unlike other works she has experienced.

Bouler said he started working on the play last year. When he came across this particular work he said, “This is the play I should be doing.” The play is pretty deep, well-written and clear in terms of what is happening, said Bouler.

The author of “Eurydice” has been nominated for a Tony Award three times, said Bouler, and has also been nominated for a Pulitzer Prize three times.

The play includes a cast of seven students who rehearse six days a week, said Bouler. There are also two stage managers, one sound designer, and two faculty members who work on costumes, make-up, and set design, said Bouler.

“Eurydice” premieres Thursday, Nov. 11 at 7 p.m. It will also be performed Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., Nov. 13 at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., and Nov. 14 at 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Admission is free, but audience members are encouraged to bring canned food items for a local food bank.