A Drama Major Student’s Lens: The Exploration of Museum
March 13 was the opening show for the Museum at the Al and Trish Huehn Theatre. I was volunteering as an usher and got to watch it for free (no hassle at paying a full price ticket, right? lol). While the director, Caroline, explained to me what the ushers do, we went inside the theater and I was mesmerized by the stage full of sculptures and a bunch hanging around the clothesline.
After completing my duties, I took my seat and the show began. I couldn’t believe that there were more than forty characters in it and they played weirdly but also funny at the same time. I couldn’t help but think: ‘holy moly, how did they manage to run through so many characters?!’
One point that stood out to me was Vian who played The Guard. She delivered her brief monologue with her blunt and straightforward tone, starkly contrasting with the more pretentious lines spoken by art enthusiasts, creating a humorous juxtaposition. The performances were dynamic and well-executed, with actors making deliberate physical choices, such as exaggerated gestures and distinct body language, to differentiate their characters and enhance comedic moments. The atmosphere of the production was created shifting from comedic to contemplative settings. This was achieved through the strategic use of lighting and sound, with dim, moody illumination and the soundscape exhibited lively, modern dance music to intensify the contrast between art and one’s expression.
The set was composed of abstract sculptures and minimalist installations - including the aforementioned clothesline. Costumes conveyed well with the social groups, by fitting similar colour palettes to visually connect them. The lighting design conveys the fluidity of the transitions between scenes and it effectively allows flow easily with movements across the stage. The use of rhythmic percussion punctuated circle dance sequences, creating a sense of urgency, while swift melodies enhanced the meditative quality of those scenes. The director moves the actors around onstage by character-driven and it is effective staging with the choreography itself mixed with modern dance and its gestural motifs.
Overall, it was an unforgettable night for me and everyone enjoyed it. I went in with an open mind and stayed pleasantly surprised by the satire and realism in the play. The actors did a splendid job at bringing these quirky and lively characters to life and made each interaction feel both spontaneous and authentic.
