Weeks of memorizations, preparations, warm-ups and rehearsals culminated into “The Lark,” MSU Theatre’s first main stage production of the season. Powered by a cast of 19 students and helmed by Jo Durst, an instructor in the department of communication, the story of Joan of Arc played out in the McComas Theatre last night.
Lillian Hellman’s adaptation of Jean Anouilh’s “The Lark” tells of the trials of Joan of Arc in the early 15th century, Durst said. Additionally as part of the prep work for the play, a great deal of research was conducted into the trial, the Inquisition and the war with the English, she added.
“Rehearsals have been every Sunday through Thursday,” Brandon Morris said. In last night’s production Morris portrayed Warwick, the English earl who represented the English at Joan’s trial.
“This is my first main stage leading role, so the work has been more in-depth allowing me to explore my character,” he said.
Deanna Dye filled the role of Joan, but said there was a price to the part. During the course of rehearsals, Dye said her knees were black and blue from the physically demanding role.
In spite of the pains of acting, the cast also alluded to some lighter moments.
“There’s some comedy interspersed in this dramatic tale,” Dye said, giggling in reference to some of the hijinks that occurred over the past month.
Cast member James Comans said his co-star Will Cooper was notorious for doing something hilarious in the rehearsals. “His character (King Charles) acts crazy, so it opened him up to do some fun things on stage.”
“The Lark” continues its run today and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are sold at the McComas Theatre box office and are $10 for the general public and $5 for MSU students and employees, as well as for senior citizens.