COSTUMES, MAKEUP, CURTAIN!

The University of Denver Department of Theatre is currently staging Jane Martin’s “Anton in Show Business.”

This is the first production of the current academic year for the department.

The play follows a theater company as it prepares to perform a production of Anton Chekov’s “The Three Sisters” that has been updated to the present. One of the actresses is a Hollywood starlet, talented, sensual and seductive. The second is an unassuming Texas schoolteacher going back to her one true passion: acting. The third is a stage actress, an off, off-Broadway theater gypsy.

The play focuses on what goes on behind the scenes of a production, from auditions to rehearsals to the actual performance of the play. Some scenes are performed “backstage.” The audience sees the lights, ropes and props kept behind the scenes of a regular production.

The play-within-a-play plotline may not be original, but it leads to some interesting interactions between characters (and there are some interesting interactions).

Aside from the humor that flows through the play, there are also some serious issues brought to light, among these the pressures and limitations faced by actors trying to make it big.

Paula Sperry, who has taught at DU for many years and staged numerous DU plays, directs the play. This is the last staging in Margery Reed Hall.

After this, performances will be held in the Newman Center for Performing Arts.

The performance began on Halloween. The play will also be shown this weekend, Nov. 8-10. Tickets are $8 for students with ID, seniors, handicapped and alumni. The general admission price is $10 and the price for groups of 10 or more is $8.

Reservations are not necessary, but are recommended. To make reservations, call (303) 871-3848