Frances Marion Givhan
Image courtesy of Mary Morrison
The amount of energy and intensity that the cast of All’s Well That Ends Well brings to even a rehearsal performance promises an amazing run for the student directed Shakespeare comedy. Chase Brantley (C’15) directs the actors with incredible insight on the characters, and the way he engages with everyone shows the professional and trusting bond they have. All’s Well That Ends Well, as described by the event’s Facebook page, tells the story of Shakespeare’s most modern woman, Helena, who travels through darkness and undergoes extreme suffering to try and save the man of her desires, Bertram, Count of Rossillion. The Count, however, desires Diana, a chaste woman who has Photo courtesy of Marry Morrisondenied his advances. Using Diana, Helena contrives an act of deception – typical of Shakespeare’s comedies – in order to win Bertram’s love. The cast ranges from freshman to seniors to a few faculty members, all with incredible dedication to the show. They pick up each others’ impulses, creating scenes that with Brantley’s guidance flow naturally and with amazing humor. “We have been inevitably pushing each other to the next level by really immersing ourselves in the world of the play,” said Sarah High (C’15), who plays Helena. Each actor brings a great amount of personality to his or her performance, growing more comfortable with an understanding of the characters in their care. “Like any production, the show requires a lot of work,” said Page Forrest (C’17), the stage manager, “but the cast has such great energy and dedication.”
The behind-the-scenes work is bound to amaze the audience as well. Senior theatre major Mary Morrison (C’15) designed the set as her senior project. “I’ve been talking with Chase since August,” she said. “I researched Ottoman architecture, especially that of mosques.” She worked on concept drawings before creating a blueprint on a 3D modeling program. The set, for which construction began in January, looks incredible and provides a dynamic space for the actors to work in. The bright colors and details encourage all eyes to focus on the show before them. All’s Well runs from Wednesday through Saturday, February 25-28 at 7:30, with a Sunday matinee on March 1 at 2 p.m. Admission is free, reservations encouraged by emailing mcook@sewanee.edu, and all should attend to support all involved.