NOTE: Oct. 24 matinee will be ASL interpreted.
George Etherege's thrilling comedy The Man of Mode will open at 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 21, in the Todd Theater in Todd Union on the University of Rochester's River Campus. Presented by the University's International Theatre Program, the play will run at 8 p.m. on Oct. 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30, and Dec. 9 and 11; and at 3 p.m. on Oct. 24. The Oct. 24 matinee will be ASL interpreted for the Deaf community.
The play, a masterpiece of Etherege's, is a Restoration comedy focusing on the Earl of Rochester, who was one of the most fascinating and contradictory men in the 17th century. He uses seduction and charm to pursue the affections of three women for power, money, and a desperate sense of "life."
The Man of Mode takes place in Charles II's London: a city full of tantalizing spirit and excitement in which romance is played out to be anything but innocent. Etherege paints the picture of the sly main character as a complex and charismatic man befitting the 28-year-old Earl who inspired this comedic creation.
This production will be followed later in the semester by Stephen Jeffrey's contemporary satire The Libertine, which also deals with the Earl of Rochester. Both plays will be performed in repertory on alternate days in early December, allowing Rochester audiences a unique look at two complementary comedies dealing with the same subject matter, but from diverse historic and stylistic viewpoints.
The production will be directed by Mervyn Willis, currently in his 10th year as the International Theatre Program's artistic director. Set and costume design are by Russian designer Nikita Tkachuck; lighting design is by Jane Cox; and the original score is by Greek composer Alexandros.
Tickets are $8 general admission; $7 for faculty, staff and seniors; $5 for students. Visa and MasterCard accepted, group discounts are available. Tickets can be purchased at the box office or by calling (585) 275-4088.