Addressing the universal struggle of morality with humor, movement and original musical compositions, the University of La Verne theater arts department is presenting several productions of German playwright Bertolt Brecht’s “The Good Woman of Setzuan.”
Set in the make-believe, down-and-out town of Setzuan, China, the play puts a creative spin on the attempt to rise above slum life and champions kindness over a never-ending greed for material goods.
Honesty is a rarity in Setzuan and, as the story goes; three Chinese gods are sent from Heaven to alleviate some of the problems in the city.
A prostitute named Shen Te, a diamond in the rough, is the only person who will let the divine trio stay in her home, and she is ultimately rewarded with money.
The play features an original score composed by Director of Theater Steve Kent and arranged by Professor of Music Reed Gratz.
The underlying theme of the play follows the hardships associated with maintaining virtue in a corrupt society. Shen Te embodies this as she attempts to use her money to accomplish good deeds.
Technical effects and a cast of 40 make the production of this 20th century comedy all the more inspiring.
The production runs at 7:30 p.m. today on the Daily Theatre main stage and at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 11, 16, 17 and 18.
A special matinee production will be held at 2 p.m. on Nov. 19. For more information or to make reservations call (909) 593-3511, Ext. 4386.
Kady Bell can be reached at rzezna65@yahoo.com.
