Show time is only minutes away. The lights are dimmed, obscuring the delicately painted scene on stage. Sternberger Auditorium, abuzz with a chattering audience, is suddenly filled with a terrible noise: the chaotic beating of drums, cowbells, and various other utensils. The lights flicker on, and the actors pile onto the stage.
In the theatre studies department’s newest production, “The Rivals,” the excitement of the opening carries on throughout the entire play. The play is an 18th-century comedy that recounts playwright Richard Brinsley Sheridan’s courtship of his wife. The play takes a timeless look at burden of filial piety and the absurdities of young lovers.
Many of the jokes rely on the mechanics of language, particularly in the case of Mrs. Malaprop, a character who often misuses words in a futile attempt to inflate her speech. The play’s true humor is energized by a powerful acting crew and a cast of zany characters. Laughs were not in short supply on opening night.
“In my opinion, this play is the best I’ve seen at Guilford College,” said junior Kalyn Howard, an usher who joined the audience for the opening night. “It had the best production, was very eye-catching, and the combination of actors was great.”
Eye-catching, indeed. The theatre studies department aims to delight with beautifully constructed scenery, costumes, and props. The detail put into the set easily activates the imagination of the audience, simulating an 18th century feel.
“This set was really different from any set we’ve done before,” said sophomore and scenic artist Elizabeth Wray. “We learned a lot and we got a chance to work with a professional scenic artist.”
Straightforward storytelling and wit are the play’s strong points. Although “The Rivals” arguably does not boast the depth of the department’s previous plays, the performance lends itself to a wide audience with its clever commentary on love. An exciting pace and hilarious character antics keep amusement levels high.
“We’ve done plays in the past like ‘Uncle Vanya’ that have had comedic interludes, but this has been our first straight-on comedy in awhile,” said junior Marcus Edghill, the actor who plays Anthony Absolute.
At the end of the first showing, the actors had a right to be proud of their performance. Members of the audience lined up to deliver congratulatory remarks.
“We all worked really hard and at times it was strenuous,” said Edghill. “But we all put in a lot of energy into the final product. It ended up really great.”
“It was a really long, nerve-wracking process, but with a good a product,” said sophomore Puja Toltun, who plays Mrs. Malaprop.
First-year Will Batchelor, who plays the protagonist role of Captain Jack Absolute, echoed the sentiments of his fellow cast members.
“I was worried at first, but I felt like everything fell into place on stage tonight,” said Batchelor.
Taking on a central character role is unusual for a first-year peace and conflicts studies major, but Batchelor took on the role with style and expertise. Batchelor said that he has some acting experience from high school.
“There are some things that credits can’t fulfill,” said Batchelor. “College is about trying new things and getting experiences you wouldn’t have otherwise. I definitely got my money’s worth out of the process (of the play).”
All in all, “The Rivals” proves to be a fun, fresh production. Its light-hearted tone is perfect for those that simply want to take a break from their busy schedule, sit down, and be entertained.
“I recommend that everyone see it (the play),” said Howard. “With conviction, in fact. The theatre department did a really bang-up job.”
Tickets are $3 for Guilford community members and $5 for general admission. Showings continue through Nov. 12-13.