CWU's Scapin Is an Ageless, Exuberant Rom-Com

Romantic hijinks abound in Central Washington University's Central Theatre Ensemble production of Scapin, a comedy by 17th-century French playwright Moliere. CTE’s adaptation sets Scapin in the groovy hey-day of the psychedelic 1960s.

In this wild, action-filled comedy, the wily Scapin, servant to the household of Geronte, promises to help in affairs of his neighbor’s son, Octave, then to aid in those of his own charge, Leander, who is Geronte’s son. Both young men are madly in love with down-and-out beauties, Hyacinth and Zerbinette, and both need money to help solve their individual predicaments. Scapin understands a good trick will always triumph and he recruits Octave’s servant, into his schemes. Overflowing with improvisation and madcap characters, this play is a riotous frolic of theatrical shenanigans.

Scapin will be performed at 7:30 p.m., April 16, 17, 18, and 23, 24, 25, in the Milo Smith Tower Theatre. There will also be a Sunday matinee performance at 2:00 p.m., April 26. General admission is $12, students/seniors $10, and $7 for CWU students w/ID. Tickets may be purchased online at www.cwu.edu/theatre/tickets or by calling 509-963-1429. Tickets may also be purchased in person at the Wildcat Shop Customer Service in the Student Union and Recreation Building.

Parking in CWU lots is free after 4:30 p.m. and on weekends, except in residence hall lots and in specifically designated spaces.

Actor, director, teacher, and playwright Bill Irwin adapted The Trickeries of Scapin for modern audiences. An artist trained in commedia and clowning, Irwin uses a very physical style of comedy in his original works, including The Regard of Flight and Fool Moon. He has a keen understanding of character archetypes, which allows him to update a classic text while keeping the original spirit of the story. Irwin has staged multiple, Tony-award-winning performances on Broadway, and in regional theatres, including the Seattle Repertory Theatre.

Media Contact: Valerie Chapman-Stockwell, Public Affairs, 509-963-1518, valeriec@cwu.edu

April 15, 2015