Jessica Kirschner
During rehearsal, cast members look on as senior Rachel Peck acts out a death scene. Theatre director Rebecca Rhinehart said “Scapino!” utilizes a classic plot but gives it a modern comedic twist.
“‘Scapino!’ follows a classic Commedia dell’arte plot line using classic Commedia dell’arte stock characters,” Rhinehart said. “Naples’ 18-year-olds Leandro and Ottavio have found the loves of their lives, but their miser moms don’t approve of the matches. It is left up to wily servant, Scapino, and her accomplice, Sylvestro, to trick the mothers out of money and into agreeing to their sons’ marriages. Audiences won’t want to miss the dancing servers, chase scenes, hilarious gangsters and songs.”
Rhinehart said she has high hopes for the show.
“Acting slapstick takes a different kind of acting talent, and actors have to possess a wide range of talent, from physical and vocal ability, to musical and dance talent,” Rhinehart said. “I expect audiences to really enjoy the play on a multitude of levels, and every time you watch this play, you get more out of it.”
The show will be Nov. 15 and 16 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 18 at 2 p.m., Rhinehart added.