‘Comedy of Errors’ hits the stage
Alex Oberheide and Mason Absher are all tied up in Shakespeare’s “Comedy of Errors” that opened at Ransburg Auditorium on Oct. 2. Oberheide and Absher play two sets of twins in this comedic play that takes place in Cuba in the 1960s.
By Mia Dandino | Staff Writer
If you’re looking for a fun-filled night of comedy and entertainment, search no further than “The Comedy of Errors.”
This Shakespearean tale is about mistaken identities, love affairs and chaotic elements. The story begins with two sets of twins separated at birth. They unknowingly meet each other years later in the city of Ephesus. Confusion spreads throughout the city as the townspeople mistakenly identify one set of twins as the other. As the truth unravels, each set of twins discovers who their counterparts are and their origins.
“We chose ‘The Comedy of Errors’ because it was a classic and well-known comedy,” said director Brad Wright.
The production offered a wide range of acting possibilities as well as set design and costume design. Set in Cuba during the 1960s, the vibrant colors of the costumes and set draw the audience into the revolutionary period, offering a modern perspective on this classic play. Wright and scenic designer, Jim Ream gained inspiration for the setting from the vivid colors, unique architecture and elaborate clothing of the Cuban culture.
Lead actor, junior Mason Absher and supporting actor, Alex Oberheide gave outstanding performances. Absher and Oberheide portrayed both sets of twins, Antipholus and Dromio, respectively. Absher provided a different approach distinguishing between the two Antipholus characters. Antipholus of Syracuse, who dressed with purple accessories, was the more confused of the pair. Antipholus of Ephesus, dress in yellow fashions, was the more violent and angry of the two.
On the other hand, Oberheide displayed specific characteristics between the Dromio twins. Dromio of Syracuse was the flamboyant and sensitive twin. Oberheide played a more masculine role for the Dromio of Ephesus character.
Lead actress, Stephanie Kucsera and supporting actress, Chelsey Wood added to the hilarity of the production. Kucsera played Adriana, the wife of Antipholus of Ephesus, portraying a jealous wife through facial expressions and tone of voice.
Wood played Luciana, the sister of Adriana, demonstrating a confused and worrisome character through her posture and mannerisms.
The design elements created a great visual spectacle and an attraction to the eyes. The rigid and angular architectural structures within the set was contrasted with the chaotic and flexibility of the characters. At the same time the purple and yellow adorned costumes provided the audience with a clear distinction between the characters from Syracuse and from Ephesus. Even the lights and sound depicted an atmosphere that tied the concept of Cuban culture and identity confusion together.
If you enjoy chaos, mistaken identity and theatrical spectacle, you can’t go wrong with this Cuban interpretation of “The Comedy of Errors.”
