Photo by Steph Willis
HOLLY BURDICK
Special to The Leader
“Man of La Mancha” is an initial crowd pleaser. It includes characters that are relatable, witty jokes all around, wonderful music and a great story. Both junior theatre arts major Jon Christiano, and freshman theatre arts major Victoria Dieck chose the music as their favorite part. “The Impossible Dream” and “Aldonza.”
“There’s been a whole generation of people who grew up with the show, and have been motivated by it,” Christiano said.
Christiano believes that “The Impossible Dream” is the most powerful song. With the concept of the impossible dream and the emotional ties with it makes it a favorite.
Dieck’s favorite, “Aldonza”, allows her to “go crazy” and “lay it all out on the floor.” Her character is very firm and mean, and during this song, the reason is discovered.
“She’s cold-hearted, but with the passion that burns, the ice melts after the song,” said Dieck.
“I don’t think I have ever worked with an orchestra that big before, or with that many professionals in it for that matter” said freshman theatre major, Trevor Alberts-Pearson, who plays Sancho. This is the first time that the Department of Theatre and Dance has directly worked with The Western New York Chamber Orchestra, so everyone is very excited.
After discussing rehearsals, it was discovered that the cast will only have about three or four rehearsals with the orchestra, but everyone is more excited than nervous. Director Thomas Loughlin stated that this is normal.
“It’s just a matter of timing it with the students, and putting it all together,” said Loughlin. “It is fast, but that’s fairly traditional in the professional world.”
Photo by Steph Willis
Alberts-Pearson enjoys the comical aspect of the show. There are many witty remarks and jokes that “just keep coming.” Because his character is very loyal to his master, there are many remarks that are made that are sure to get the audience to chuckle.
“Really what’s left is getting the audience to be invested,” Christiano said. The rehearsals and preparation process is nearing an end, all that’s needed is the audience. “Once we have an audience…it’ll flow a lot easier,” continued Christiano. “The cast has done all they can do. The feedback from the crowd will complete the show.”
Referred to as the “Super Showcase,” Loughlin believes it is a pre-game show for Superbowl Sunday. “People will be in and out before they know it.”
Loughlin would like to clarify the meaning of a concert version of the show. It is when the singers and the cast are the only aspect presented on stage. There are very few props and no sets. The singers will be dressed in blacks and very basic costumes to give a flavor of the era.
Also, most of the leads are allowed to have their script books in their hand.
“Maybe some of them will attempt it without the book,” said Loughlin. “[But] if you see people out there with books, it’s not because they don’t know what they’re doing, it’s just that’s the way it runs.”
The show will be held in King Concert Hall on Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at the Fredonia Ticket Office and are $10 for Fredonia students and $25 for the general public.
Photo by Steph Willis