This term’s theatre production was the well-loved story “Flora & Ulysses,” directed by James G. and Ethel M. Barber Professor of Theatre and Drama and Associate Professor of Theatre Arts Kathy Privatt. Taking place from Thursday to Saturday during week seven in Stansbury Theatre, the play had four performances, including some specifically for school children. It also had two different casts, the “L” cast and the “U” cast, with each cast performing twice.
Having never read the novel by Kate DiCamillo as a child, I was surprised at how sweet the overall comedic play was. While the story itself is more geared towards children, it still speaks to adults. Of course, the cast and crew had a big role in making it such a special performance for such a wide-ranging audience. I went to the final performance, and was happy to see that there was a decent amount of people in the audience, despite it being an afternoon showing.
As I’ve already alluded to, the acting was incredible. The performance I went to starred sophomore Aimsley Shearer as Flora, who brought such life to the 10-year-old character. Both her physicality and voice fit the neurotic and loving character perfectly. I am sure the same applies to Shearer’s Flora counterpart, first-year Izzy Ambrose. I would have loved to see both of the casts perform, as I know everyone has their own unique style and voice.
I thought it would be fun to speak with members of the cast about what their favorite part of being in the play was. First-year Scarlett Stokes (Dr. Meescham) said, “My favorite part about this show was working with such a unique script, since it is a children’s show that deals with difficult family dynamics and childhood trauma using humor. I loved exploring both the heartfelt parts of my character and the fun and crazy parts.”
In response to the same question, junior Alice Miller (Mrs. Tickham/Rita) said, “I think my favorite part of being in the show was the rehearsal process. Each cast was given a lot of freedom to experiment with their own blocking and characterization. Sometimes I would ask Professor Privatt, our director, why she thought my character was doing this certain thing, and she would usually give me a few possibilities, but ultimately wanted me to decide which one would fit my character best or that would raise the stakes for her more. In addition to that, everyone in the ensemble was very supportive and it created a good environment for creativity and trust. I’m glad I got to get that experience!”
First-year Sorin Czoschke (William/Ernie) responded, “I think my favorite part about being in the show was being able to connect a childlike wonder to a bigger, more emotional story. And hanging out with everyone in the cast!” While I can’t speak for the other actors, it seems the experience was a collaborative and meaningful one for many.
In addition to the acting, a notable part of this play was the puppetry. The character of Ulysses (who–for those who aren’t familiar with the story–is, in fact, a squirrel) was played by an actor with a puppet. So too was the character Mr. Klaus (a cat). The set, lights and sound also deserve compliments, as do the fantastic costumes and makeup (and honestly everything else!).
Reflecting on my experience seeing the show, I think my main takeaway was how we can tell stories softly. They don’t always need to be the most obvious or the most dramatic; sometimes we can communicate human conflict and truth in a way that’s palpable for children just as it is for adults. I also have been thinking about the meaning of the word “capacious,” a word that is quoted multiple times throughout the play and is cited in the program. It leaves me wondering how much we can hold.
I’d wager we can hold a lot.