Thursday through Saturday, Theatre MSU will perform “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead” in the McComas Hall Theater.
“Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead” is an absurdist comedy written by British playwright Tom Stoppard. The play was first performed in the late 1960s.
The two main characters of the play, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, are minor characters from Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.” The play is full of “Hamlet” references.
“It is a spin-off of sorts,” said Brandon Morris, who plays the role of Polonius.
The absurdist quality of “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead” is reminiscent of Samuel Becket’s “Godot.”
“The play is based on “Hamlet” and parallels found in Becket’s “Godot,” director Jo Durst said.
“Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead” uses a blend of the modern English language and the Old English language found in the plays of Shakespeare.
“It is more conversational, and easier to understand where the story is going,” said Brad Bishop, who plays an array of characters in the play.
The cast and crew have been working hard to bring this play to MSU, practicing everyday for six weeks.
Theatre majors are not the only ones taking part in this play. A mix of majors ranging from international business to physics can be found throughout the cast.
Jeff Durst will play the role of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern will be played by James Comans.
Tickets can be bought at the door the night of the performance, or reservations can be made. Tickets will be $10 for general admission and $5 for students, faculty and staff.
Theatre MSU’s next production, “A Work in Progress” by MSU student Matthew Webb, hits the stage Oct. 23.
For more information or to make reservations, contact Jo Durst at 325-3203 or e-mail [email protected].