`Lysistrata’ to be performed at The W

COLUMBUS, Miss. (Press Release) -– The Department of Theatre at Mississippi University for Women will present “Lysistrata” Oct. 16-18 at 7:30 p.m. in Cromwell Auditorium.

The play, translated by Nicholas Rudall, is a comedy by the Greek playwright Aristophanes. After years of war between city-states, the cost of the lives of sons and husbands continues to grow. Now, the women of Greece have come together to create peace, even if it means taking extreme measures.

“Greek comedy has proven lots of fun. Finding comedy in incongruity and bawdy jokes creates a play that is relevant to today’s societal ills. The result will be a physical comedy with a clear message about the consequences of long running wars,” said Director Lee Crouse.

The cast includes Karen Thead, Saudai Jackson, Allison Jones, Leah Thompson, Katie Welch, Candice Monteith, Ariel Holmes, Quishanta Cummings, Gabrielle Lestrade, Caryann Odom, Olivia Stevens, Marissa Vaughn, Johnathan Best, Graham Young, Gavin Mendus, Chris Ambrose, Kevin Barkman, Ray Sizemore and Devan Tate.

The production team includes theatre faculty members William “Peppy” Biddy, movement and vocal coach; David Carter, technical director and producer; and Lee Crouse, director. Guest artist Holly Allen is costume designer.

In addition, Abi Wiggins is the stage manager, and graduate Mary Wildsmith is the assistant stage manager and sound board operator. Carter is scenic designer, and Ray Sizemore is the lighting designer. Leah Thompson is make-up designer, and Parker Yarbrough is props master. Lindsey Tanner is scenic charge.

Thead, the actress playing the title role, said, “`Lysistrata’ has been a challenging but enjoyable show to be involved with. It has been interesting working with a modern translation of the script. I think our interpretation will speak to today’s audiences. If the laughter we’ve had during rehearsals is any sign of the shows comedic potential, the audience will be rolling in the aisles.”

Tickets are $5 for students and $10 for adults. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the performance will begin promptly at 7:30 p.m. The show will run 1 hour 20 minutes with no intermission. This play contains adult language and themes. No one under the age of 15 will be allowed entry.

Cromwell is located at the corner of Sixth Avenue South and 10th Street South.