Isabella Cianfarra
In Motion Staff Writer
A tale of mistaken identity, love, trickery and a whole lot of tomfoolery will highlight Daytona State College’s fall production of William Shakespeare’s comedy, “Twelfth Night.”
But “An Evening of Culture, Faith County II: The Saga Continues,” opens Oct. 20, offering a spoof on the well-loved tragedy of “Romeo and Juliet.”
The long-awaited sequel to the wonderfully popular “Faith County” returns the cast to Mineola County, where the Community Theatre is producing “Romeo and Juliet.” Alhough cast members don’t have their lines memorized, the set isn’t finished and a dog keeps barking off stage, they’re giving it a go.
There’s an awe-inspiring performance given by Mildred Carson (who doesn’t look 50) as Juliet. And there’s great chemistry between her and Bubba Bedford, who is cast as Romeo. And let’s not forget Naomi Farkle Carson, who provides additional dialogue.
Assistant professor Samantha Stern, DSC’s Director of Theater, says she is striving for “Zorro meets Flamenco dancing” as director of the “Twelfth Night” production. The cast of 18, who were chosen during open auditions last month, is going perform in a more modern setting with a Spanish flare.
In the story of “Twelfth Night,” Viola, believing her twin brother died in their shipwreck, dresses as a boy to find work. She is hired by Orsino, the Duke of Illyria, to court his neighbor Countess Olivia for him. Viola, still disguised as a boy, begins developing feeling for her employer and chaos ensues.
Leading the cast of actors is: Rachel Larchar as Viola; Jessica James as Olivia; and Kerry Alce as Duke Orsino. The production’s Spanish influence will be evident in the comedy’s setting, wardrobe and music, Stern says, although the players are still exploring concepts in rehearsals.
The play will, however, feature live musicians including singers, guitarists and other instruments. In addition to rehearsals, the cast of “Twelfth Night” has done workshops with various professionals such as Anne Hering, the director of education at Orlando Shakespeare Theater, as an introduction into the world of Shakespeare and in preparation for their performance.
“Faith County” will be offered Oct. 20-22, 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 23, 2:30 p.m. “Twelfth Night” runs from Nov. 17 to the 19 at 7:30 p.m, and Nov. 19-20 at 2:30 p.m.
Tickets for both presentations are free to students from Daytona State College, Flagler and Volusia counties. For all others, admission is $8 per person or $15 a couple. Tickets are available online at www.DaytonaState.edu/TheArts. Both performances will be at the DSC’s Gillespy Theater in the News-Journal Center, 221 N. Beach St., Daytona Beach.