Reeve’s Theatre will house the final production of Seton Hill University (SHU) Theatre Program’s 2008-2009 season, “Children of Eden,” a musical, beginning next month. This celebrated musical got its start in England. The music and lyrics are by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin, Godspell), and the book is by John Caird (Les Miserables). Not only is “Children of Eden” the final show of this year’s season, but it also the final main stage performance being done at Reeves before the move to the new SHU’s Performing Arts Center.
By Bethany Bouchard
Staff Writer
Reeve’s Theatre will house the final production of Seton Hill University (SHU) Theatre Program’s 2008-2009 season, “Children of Eden,” a musical, beginning next month. This celebrated musical got its start in England. The music and lyrics are by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin, Godspell), and the book is by John Caird (Les Miserables). Not only is “Children of Eden” the final show of this year’s season, but it also the final main stage performance being done at Reeves before the move to the new SHU’s Performing Arts Center.
“It’s the first book of Genesis loosely translated and put on the stage with music,” said Matt Mylnarski, a junior and PR representative for the show.
Brendan Duffy, a freshman playing Adam and Noah said, “Act I is about creation and God’s relationship with Adam and Eve all the way through them getting expelled from Eden and the story of Cain and Abel. In Act II, Noah and his family wait on the ark while they wait for the rain to stop.”
“Children of Eden” is a special show because “It’s the last show in Reeves,” said Mylnarski.
There are also several other aspects of the show that will appeal to a wide range of audiences. “The audience can expect to be immersed in the world of the show in different ways,” said Duffy. “It will be fun to watch a familiar story told in a new fashion.”
A lot of work and effort has already been put into making SHU’s production the best it can be, but there is always more work to be done before opening.
“Every show has a lot of work to be put in before you can expect a good product,” said Duffy.
There are lines to memorize, blocking to get down, vocal rehearsal, and tech runs. There is also the designing and building of the set that will bring the world of Eden and the book of Genesis to life for the audience.
“There are a lot of cool design ideas for ideally using the theatre to convey the message of the show,” said Duffy.
The performance dates and times for “Children of Eden” are April 24 at 10:30 a.m. and 8 p.m., April 25 at 8 p.m., April 26 at 2 p.m., April 28 and 29 at 10:30 a.m., and April 30 through May 2 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $12 for single admission. Student tickets are available at $5.