University Theatre season opens Oct. 3 with ‘The Maderati’

The 2003-2004 University Theatre season begins Oct. 3-5 and 7-11 in the John Wright Theatre with “The Maderati” by Richard Greenberg, directed by Brad Myers.

This sassy comedy pokes fun at a group of young and affluent friends who are highly sophisticated and even more neurotic. Misunderstandings arise when Charlotte, one of the friends, is temporarily detained in a mental hospital. Frisky hilarity arises as the friends rally to cope with all of the mangled reports of Charlotte's plight.

“The Dispute” by Marivaux, translated by Neil Bartlett, directed by Ruth Griffin, will run Oct. 31, Nov. 1-2 and 4-8 in the Arena Theatre.

What if four children had been kept locked away in darkness and complete isolation since birth? What if, tonight, they were to be released? How would bodies and minds reared in darkness respond to the first words, the first lies, the first kisses? What if you got to watch?

“An Ideal Husband” by Oscar Wilde, directed by Terry Miller, will be staged Dec. 5-7 and 9-13 in the John Wright Theatere.

Oscar Wilde is well known for his ability to rock a theater with laughter. This play displays Wilde's celebrated wit, but it also shows that he can spin a suspenseful tale of love and political intrigue. In the play, Sir Robert Chiltern is a statesman of great promise. He has wealth and celebrity. He is idolized by his wife. Suddenly a beautiful, immoral woman, Mrs. Cheveley, enters his circle, threatening to reveal a secret from his past, a secret that may destroy his career and his marriage.

The Portable Dance Troupe, with Ruth Griffin, artistic director, will perform Feb. 20-22 and 24-28 in the John Wright Theatre.

For more than 21 years, the troupe has been presenting the Valley with modern dance, ranging from the cutting edge of the avant garde to lyrical modern dance to contemporary ballet. Each season works are presented from nationally renowned choreographers and resident faculty.

“Cat On A Hot Tin Roof” by Tennessee Williams, directed by Kathleen McKinley, will be presented March 19-21 and 23-27 in the Arena Theatre.

Southern charm and gentility cannot veil the greed, lust, and deception in Tennessee Williams’ 1955 masterpiece. Williams won the Pulitzer Prize, the Drama Critics Award and the Tony Award for this sizzling exploration of family secrets and sexual repression. The play contains adult language and situations.

The final presentation of the season is “Into the Woods,” music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, book by James Lapine, directed by Brad Myers, musical director Scott Hancock. It will be staged May 7-9 and 11-15 in the John Wright Theatre. Special guest design will be by internationally famous LiveLight.

“Into the Woods” weaves a magic spell that awakens the child's heart within us all. The story includes characters from best-loved fairy tales who venture into the dangerous woods, hoping for a better life. Their profound struggles will leave you enchanted and forever transformed.

Season ticket prices are: General admission, $60; Fresno State faculty/staff, seniors (60+ years), Alumni Association members with ID and non-Fresno State students, $50; Fresno State students with ID, $30; Single-admission tickets are: General, $14 Fresno State faculty/staff, seniors (60+ years), Alumni Association members with ID and non-Fresno State students $12 each (add additional $2 for Into the Woods); Fresno State students with ID, $7. Children under 5 not admitted.

The Speech Arts Building box office hours are Monday Friday, noon to 5 p.m., phone 8-2216.