Rodrigo Beilfuss, photo supplied
WINNIPEG, MB – The University of Winnipeg’s Department of Theatre and Film opens its season with Shakespeare’s unique comedy, Love’s Labour’s Lost, directed by Shakespeare in the Ruins Artistic Director – and alum of the UWinnipeg theatre program – Rodrigo Beilfuss, who has spent the last four years at the Stratford Festival and recently returned to Winnipeg.
The show runs at the Gas Station Arts Centre from November 26 – 30, 2019.
“This young and sweet comedy of affectation reminds us of the last irresponsible summer of our youth, when there was not a care in the world; when even pain could be enjoyed,” said Beilfuss. “In the final moments of the play, this illusory freedom of spirit is rudely shattered by the intrusion of Reality – and the characters are forced to face the responsibilities of life, and to embark upon the necessary process of growing up. There will be laughs. There will be tears. And, in the end, there will be transformation…”
This UWinnipeg production brings together the graduating honours acting class, plus guests from the program’s first-year class. A grand total of 15 actors, playing multiple roles, will inhabit a highly theatrical world of heart-stopping poetry, bombastic music, divine singing, and silly dancing.
It also features gorgeously lush lighting and set design by faculty member Adam Parboosingh, whose sleek work was recently seen at the Royal MTC’s acclaimed production of Bang Bang. The majestic, utterly romantic 19th century costumes are by graduate and Stratford alum Joseph Abetria. All technical work is done by both junior and senior production students.
Word of warning: this stunning play will not be featured in the upcoming ShakespeareFest – indeed, this is your only chance to experience a truly special text that is not often performed in the 21st century.
Love’s Labour’s Lost runs Tuesday, November 26 through Friday, November 29 at 7:30 pm, and Saturday, November 30 at 7:00 pm at the Gas Station Arts Centre (445 River Ave). Admission is free, but reservations are recommended. Please call our 24-hour Reservation Line at 204.786.9152, or visit UWinnipeg’s Department of Theatre and Film website at http://theatre.uwinnipeg.ca
Content warning: 12+; language, sexuality, and saucy wit of both high and low taste.
Based in the Asper Centre for Theatre and Film at The University of Winnipeg, the Department of Theatre and Film offers concentrations in acting, design, drama in education, filmmaking, playwriting, and production/stage management. Our classes are small and our approach is practical. Our faculty is comprised of highly respected and award-winning professionals who are experienced teachers and remain active in their disciplines, bringing relevant and up-to-date instruction to our students.
MEDIA CONTACT
Melinda Tallin, Department of Theatre and Film, University of Winnipeg
T: 204.786.9955, E: m.tallin@uwinnipeg.ca
Christopher Brauer, Department of Theatre and Film, University of Winnipeg
T: 204-786-9006, E: c.brauer@uwinnipeg.ca
