The Daytona State College Theatre department presents “Xanadu,” their spring musical, opening on Saturday, April 20.
More likely to be known for the film it was based on, starring Oliva Newton- John and Gene Kelly in 1980, this wacky show tells the story of a Greek Muse, Kira, who travels to California in 1980 and inspires Sonny, her love interest, to create a roller disco.
Photo by Marina Meretz.
With a comedic script to guide them, the cast has been working hard to incorporate all the elements of the show in an entertaining way. From roller skating, singing, dancing and of course physical comedy, audiences are sure to be entertained.
When picking this show, the director had one objective in mind. “The primary goal was to have fun. So, I looked for just the silliest, most colorful, ridiculous campy thing that I could find,” said Professor Samantha Stern. “I read it and I just laughed out loud so many times, and I knew this is the one.”
In light of all the controversy surrounding domestic and foreign politics, Stern chose “Xanadu” as a means to entertain audiences and as an escape from the often distressing reality of today.
Stage Manager, Madison Clark, appreciates the sentiment. “I think, especially right now, we are in an election year, and we just need some stupid fun,” said Clark.
As stage manager, Clark attends weekly production meetings, she sends out rehearsal reports and she checks in with cast members often. Arriving early and leaving late, Clark makes it her personal mission to ensure the show is running as smoothly as possible.
However, there are some expected technical challenges that come with the nature of the show. “I’m super excited to pull off some of our practical, technical stuff, like our flying Pegasus and our magical phone booth, which people will just have to come see to figure out how we make happen,” said Clark.
Photo by Marina Meretz.
They are taking heavy precautions to keep the actors safe with the on-stage roller skating. Audiences can expect hilarious and kitschy dance numbers that play on the strengths of the cast, including elements of jazz and tap dancing.
The unique plotline also lends itself to challenges in the costume department. Working with costume designer, Natalia Meretz, they have been able to come up with looks that combine the Greek Goddess aesthetic with the 1980’s fashion that centers around the show.
Another huge aspect of this show is the iconic music. Some of the earliest rehearsals were spent with Music Director Victoria Rathbun, just learning the songs.
Student Abigail Franks, playing Melpomene said, “She has been working really hard on just making sure that we nail our harmonies and stay true to the music but also, she lets us have a lot of creative freedom.”
As Franks’ last show at DSC, along with many of her cast mates’, she has felt nostalgic. But as one of her first major supporting roles, she has felt comfortable playing with her creative expression in a space where she is surrounded by support.
Cast mate Andrea Oliveras, playing Euterpe in the show, is most excited for audiences to see, “The unity of the cast. Yes, Kiera and Sonny are the leads, but I think everybody is just so talented and everybody fits their muse character so well.”
Stern commends her cast for their willingness to try new things and be vulnerable. The level of trust between the cast, crew and the director is unmatched and she appreciates the commitment and team mentality that is brought to the table by everyone involved.
Photo by DSC Marketing.
The show runs from April 20 to April 28. Tickets are free for DSC students, staff and faculty with a valid DSC ID. Tickets are sold online and at the News-Journal Center Box Office.
It is the wish of Stern, the cast and the crew to bring some lighthearted fun to audiences. Stern said the goal of the show, “is to go have a night out where you can just laugh and enjoy yourself.”