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Saginaw Valley State University

October 9, 2024

SVSU Theatre to produce a classic French comedy

poster with theatre mask on green background

To kick off its 2024-25 season, Saginaw Valley State University’s Department of Theatre is showcasing a French comedy performed in a classic Italian style. “The Miser” will run from Wednesday, Oct. 16, through Saturday, Oct. 19, at 7:30 p.m., as well as on Sunday, Oct. 20, at 3 p.m. in SVSU’s Malcom Field Theatre for Performing Arts.

The show, written by French playwright Molière in 1668, revolves around the issues of love and money, with familial pressures and money troubles playing a large role in the show’s conflict. It is performed in the commedia dell’arte style, which originated in Italy before gaining popularity in France and centers around comic and dramatic acting style with characters that are exaggerated versions of common types. Because of this, the show poses an extra challenge to actors who have never acted in this style before.

“Commedia is a very physical style that uses masks, and it is the first time many of the students in our show are experiencing it,” said director Dave Rzeszutek. “The show is important to perform at the university to give our students the opportunity to work on classical comedy.”

Rzeszutek is trained in the commedia dell’arte style, and “The Miser” is his third time directing a show in the style. He is most excited to introduce the SVSU community to the unique style.

The cast of “The Miser” includes:

  • Elliott Bell, a history major from Auburn, in the role of Brindavoine
  • Trent Bergman, an English major from Midland, in the role of Cléante
  • Billy Dorsey, community member, portraying Anselme
  • Emma-Gene Dorsey, a theatre major from Frankenmuth, in the role of Marianne
  • Kalinah Dunn, a communication major, in the role of The Sheriff:
  • Lila Duvendack, a psychology major from Saginaw, in the role of Frosine
  • CeCe Goulette, an environmental science major from Cass City, portraying Master Jacques
  • George Hageage IV, a theatre major from Midland, portraying Valère
  • Hayley Huggett, of Bellevue, in the role of La Merluche
  • Isabel Losa, a theatre major from Saginaw, in the role of Élise
  • Scout McCulloch, a communication and theatre major from Port Huron, in the role of La Flèche
  • Isaac Pease, a theatre major from Flint, portraying Master Simon
  • Dana Samalik, a communication and theatre major from Essexville, in the role of Harpagon
  • Skylar Summey, a psychology major from Saginaw, in the role of Mistress Claude

Tickets are $15 and can be purchased online or in person at the SVSU box office. Due to some threatening language, “The Miser” is rated PG.