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| Allison Spanyer as Lavinia in Titus Andronicus. Photo by Harlan Taylor. |
Titus Andronicus
By William Shakespeare
Directed by Charlie Sexton
A review by Kate Barry
Entire contents are copyright ©
2012 Kate Barry. All rights reserved.
Walden Theatre offers an
opportunity for youth in the area that is quite special. The Theatre offers
chances for young students to watch, perform and engage in works that might
sometimes not be available in the area. These productions provide learning tools
to help youngsters understand these plays, the verse as well as the characters
and their stories. With Titus Andronicus, Walden Theatre has provided
what Charlie Sexton refers to in his Director’s Note as Shakespeare’s “satire”
of “blood, gore and revoltingly shocking ending.”
With young actors, it is
important to remember that these folks are developing their skills and finding
their artistic voices. These characters have been shaped to fit the framework
of a youth conservatory. At times the adjustments work in favor of the
production; other times, it leaves something to be desired. Calvin Baron as
Aaron, a Moor, beloved by the Queen of the Goths, is rebellious and cunning. As
an actor, Baron provides mature promise for leading roles later in his acting
career. As one of the Queen’s minions, Aaron is himself in control of Demetrius
and Chiron, played by Sean Campbell and Elliot Vitaz, respectfully. Baron's,
Campbell's and Vitaz’s understanding of the verse as well as their delivery only
added to their strong and evil performances as they partook in cruel actions.
Emma Wesslund and Clara Burton
play Titus Andronicus and Marcus Andronicus. Casting women in strong male roles
was a powerful and bold choice. These young actresses gently yet bravely
handled the emotional burdens of the reign of terror set in motion by Tamora,
Queen of the Goths, played with seductive power by Callie Trawick. Wesslund's and
Burton’s performances are only strengthened by Allison Spanyer as Lavinia,
Titus’s daughter, who perhaps suffers the most extreme terror throughout the
play. Providing an innocent and pretty demeanor, Spanyer’s eyes and facial
expressions scream of fear and trauma in the latter half of the play.
The material and subject matter
in this piece are very controversial, even by today’s standards. Under the
direction of Charlie Sexton, these young theatre students handled the mature
subject matter like professionals. The wide range of talents within this young
cast is a perfect example of how Walden Theatre is an actor’s breeding ground
and how classic theatrical pieces are major tools to help these gifted
youngsters grow and astonish. In Titus Andronicus, these young actors
do just that.
Titus Andronicus
May 14, 15, 17, 20, 22
Walden Theatre
1123 Payne Street
502-589-0084
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