Emporia State University Theatre is hard at work on “The Birds: A Modern Adaptation” by Don Zolidis. A revamping of Aristophanes’ classic comedy, “The Birds” follows the story of Eulpides (Tyler Lang, junior, Wichita) and Pithetaerus (Logan Wohlford, junior, Valley Center) who are fed up with the petty problems of the modern world and flee to the kingdom of the birds in search of a simpler life. Along with the help of the philandering King of the Birds, Epops (Nathan Dale Short, senior, Paola), his embittered wife Procne (Miranda S. Nation, senior, Winfield), and a whole chorus of wild birds, the two scheme up a financial jackpot that could turn the birds’ land into a powerful utopia. Their only obstacle: the wrath of the gods. This hilarious satire is a look at politics, religion and the foolishness of mankind that brings new life to the Greek comedy.
“The Birds” is the first collaborative project between ESU Theatre and ESU’s newly reinstated chapter of Alpha Psi Omega, an honorary theatre society, giving students the opportunity to take on more of the production responsibilities. “The Birds” is under the co-direction of Alpha Psi Omega president Lisa Tinker (senior, Derby) and member Justin Tinker (senior, Las Vegas). Assisting with the production are stage manager Rochele Watson (senior, Oak Grove, MO) and assistant stage manager Cassidy Tilden (sophomore, Topeka). Evan Eisenbarth (senior, Cassoday) is designing the set and Nancy J Pontius is designing the lights. Susan J Mai serves as costume designer and Amanda Dura is the costume shop manager Chris Lohkamp is both sound designer and technical director, with the assistance of Ethan Crapser (junior, Olathe).
The remaining cast members are Bailey B. Carter (sophomore, Topeka), Emmanuel Cockrell (senior, Junction City), Matthew Hansen (junior, Chanute), Ryan Howerton (junior, Haysville), Harriel Mack (sophomore, Miami), Matthew Mahr (freshman, Overland Park), Sydney Main (junior, Emporia), Eric Maxwell (freshman, Garden City), Fran Opheim (sophomore, Olathe), Zulema Renteria (freshman, Emporia), Cameron Reynolds (junior, Louisburg), Abbi Timmermeyer (sophomore, Andover) and Jeri Troyer (senior, Garnett).
“The Birds” runs April 13-16 at 7:30 pm. All performances will be in the Karl C. Bruder Theatre located in King Hall. Tickets can be purchased at the Memorial Union Ticket Office or by calling 620-341-6378.