The Masquers bring Shakespearean comedy ‘Twelfth Night’ to Armstrong Campus
NOVEMBER 7, 2018
One of William Shakespeare’s most enduring comedies will be on display on Georgia Southern University’s Armstrong Campus in Savannah when The Masquers perform “Twelfth Night” at the Jenkins Hall Mainstage Theatre.
“Twelfth Night,” directed by professor Peter Mellen, Ph.D., tells the story of twins Sebastian and Viola, as well as nobleman Orsino and Lady Olivia. Viola thinks Sebastian has drowned when the two are separated after being shipwrecked.
In order to find work with Orsino, Viola disguises herself as a man, Cesario, which creates a love triangle when Viola (disguised as Cesario) falls in love with Orsino, Orsino falls in love with Olivia and Olivia falls in love with Cesario (Viola).
Paloma Whatley, who plays Viola, said a lot of hard work has gone into the production.
“Working on a Shakespearean play has been pretty challenging to say the least,” she said. “From memorizing lines that feel like a tongue twister every time you speak to understanding the material and trying to interpret it to the best of my ability, it definitely takes time to get it down and practice. Once you understand what you’re saying and can comfortably react it gets more fun each time we do it.”
Mellen said he is treating the show as if Mel Brooks was directing it.
“My favorite part of directing a Shakespearean comedy is the moment when the cast realizes this really is funny, and then they start running with it,” Mellen said.
The show runs from Nov. 8 through Nov. 11. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Armstrong Campus Box Office.
Georgia Southern University, a public Carnegie Doctoral/Research institution founded in 1906, offers 141 degree programs serving more than 27,000 students through nine colleges on three campuses in Statesboro, Savannah, Hinesville and online instruction. A leader in higher education in southeast Georgia, the University provides a diverse student population with expert faculty, world-class scholarship and hands-on learning opportunities. Georgia Southern creates lifelong learners who serve as responsible scholars, leaders and stewards in their communities. VisitGeorgiaSouthern.edu.
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