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Theatre @ York’s second production of the season, The Threepenny Opera, directed by Sonia Norris, opens Tuesday, Nov. 10 at York’s Joseph G. Green Studio Theatre, Centre for Film and Theatre.
An inspired triumph of musical theatre, The Threepenny Opera is Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill”s seductively entertaining yet pointed social critique of a corrupt Germany in the period between the World Wars. The savage satire had the two writers exiled by the Nazis, but went on to become a classic world-wide.
First performed in Berlin in 1928, Brecht’s text is both sardonic and brittle. He creates an honourless, seedy world of beggars, thieves, prostitutes and opportunists in which relationships are precariously changeable. Betrayal is the only constant as new alliances form among the roster of dubious characters. The ethical void is manifested in the play’s infamous central character, gang leader “Mac the Knife”.
“What ultimately keeps us alive amidst the fear and confusion of the world we live in that promises us much, but often delivers so little?” asks director Sonia Norris. “Many people are dealing with the same feelings of powerlessness, fear and rage explored in Threepenny Opera. Considering the uncertainty of the world we live in now, I think the play is just as relevant to audiences today.”
Theatre @ York productions showcase the talents of students within York’s Department of Theatre. The cast and crew for The Threepenny Opera are drawn from the fourth-year acting ensemble and production students. This production spotlights the talents of Leslie Wright, set and properties design; Tasha Blair, costumes; and Siobhan Sleath, lighting.
Location: Joseph G. Green Studio Theatre, Centre for Film & Theatre
Previews: Sunday, Nov. 10 and Monday, Nov. 11, 7:30pm
Performances: Tuesday, Nov. 12 through Saturday, Nov. 16, 7:30pm
Matinees: Wednesday, Nov. 13 through Friday, Nov. 15, 1pm
Tickets:
Sunday Preview: Pay-What-You-Can
Monday Preview: $5 General Admission: $12
Students/Seniors: $8