October 23, 2018

Director expects audiences to ‘laugh hysterically’ at upcoming SVSU play

“I have laughed hysterically every night of rehearsal and I know what is going to happen next.”

David Rzeszutek expects audiences to join in laughter during the upcoming Saginaw Valley State University theatre production of “The Servant of Two Masters.” He will direct the comedy that hits the stage of SVSU’s Malcolm Field Theatre for Performing Arts Wednesday, Oct. 31 through Sunday, Nov. 4.

The play, written by Carlo Goldoni, follows the greedy character Truffaldino, who secretly serves two masters in order to keep his belly full. The tale includes mystery, murder, and a wedding that may or may not happen.

Rzeszutek, SVSU associate professor of theatre, warns viewers that this is not your “average play.”

“There will be audience interaction, participation, and possibly prizes. Imagine the comedy of Jim Carrey meeting the 'sassiness' of Kevin Hart - that's the kind of humor this play is,” he said.

Rzeszutek searched and read over 20 versions of the script before deciding on the funniest fit for SVSU's stage.

The Italian commedia dell'arte - style play (a popular theatrical form that relies on stock characters and improvisation) is set in 1746.

Josh Lloyd, a theatre major from Bay City, said this production is pure comedy.

“If anyone is in need of a laugh or just a good time, come see this show,” said Lloyd, who plays the character of Pantalone.

Another Bay City native and theatre major, Brianne Dolney, plays the part of Beatrice. Dolney said that this play is not like any other she has experienced at SVSU.

“The set is a very unique set. I have never worked with anything like it before.” Dolney said. “We actually build the set as we perform. The play starts with two boxes that we eventually turn into buildings like houses and hotels. It's minimalistic yet purposeful, but all around very unique.”

The show will run at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and at 3 p.m. Sunday in SVSU's Malcolm Field Theatre for Performing Arts. Tickets cost $13 for the public and $10 for students and attendees over the age of 60.

For more information, visit http://svsu.edu/theatre/showschedule/.