The final theatre production of the semester is here

Untold story in These Shining Lives sparks curiosity in viewer

This semester has been filled with talent both on the Ted Paul stage as well as the Andreas, and this next production is no exception.

“These Shining Lives” is up next in the Andreas Theatre, opening Wednesday, Nov. 15. The show takes place in a watch factory located in Illinois during the 1920s and 1930s. Written by Melanie Marnich, this is a story about real people whose lives were greatly affected by their work. Catherine and her friends struggle to survive as they work for a company that does not care about their health.

“I want the audience to be intrigued about why these women’s stories have not shown up in our history books. They should have a sense of curiosity about these women and their stories, and a greater understanding of a strength of a group of women” said director, Kristin N. Fox.

Each year there are a few Master of Fine Arts candidates that are chosen to direct a show somewhere in the season. A third year MFA, this will be Fox’s third show directed here at Minnesota State University, Mankato and it is very special to her.

“I chose this show because it was given to me by another grad student last year to read and I fell in love with it by the first couple of scenes honestly, and I just knew that I had to tell this story. Their lives really really mattered. I needed to give it a voice,” she said.

Fox has been enjoying watching the show come together and is really impressed with the students’ work.

“I’ve been really fortunate to have such a good cast. I got a solid cast that have really good chemistry. They get along really well as people which is always a bonus because it makes it so much fun. They are all talented and smart actors which is really helpful.”

The actors have had a blast working with each other as well as under Fox’s direction to bring this story to life. Senior BFA musical theatre candidate Ashley Ziegler, who plays Catherine, feels very strongly about the message in this show.

“It’s such an honor to be able to tell this incredibly important, untold story,” she said. “The best part about this process has been getting to know each and every one of these historical figures – researching their lives and unveiling the truth behind this horrific tragedy.”

The show runs for one weekend, opening Nov. 15th and closing Nov. 18. All performances are at 7:30 p.m.

You can purchase your tickets for any show online at http://www.mnsu.edu/theatre/, over the phone at 507-389-6661, or at the Box Office Monday-Friday from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Regular tickets for These Shining Lives sell for $10, discounted for $9, and $8 for current Minnesota State University, Mankato students.

That’s all the drama for this semester, but don’t forget about the dancers. The Fall Dance Concert is coming up on Nov. 1 and Nov. 2, followed by the Fall Dance Showcase on Nov. 3. The choreographers and dancers have been preparing this whole semester, and you will not want to miss the stunning work they have created.