CSUF's Supernatural, Romantic Comedy BELL, BOOK, AND CANDLE Opens 11/17

"Bell, Book and Candle" by John Van Druten is directed by guest artist Elina de Santos and runs November 17-December 10, 2017 in the Young Theatre on campus. Gillian Holroyd casts spells and performs feats of supernaturalism. She even casts a spell over an unattached publisher and he falls head over heels in love with her. Unfortunately, as it turns out, witches aren't allowed to fall in love, which presents a conundrum for dear Gillian.

John Van Druten was born in London and first studied law, which he practiced for a period of time as a solicitor and a lecturer before his career as a playwright. His first prominent work was "Young Woodley," which was produced in New York in 1925 despite being banned in London until 1928. He quickly became one of the most successful London playwrights of the 1930's with many of his plays becoming hits on the West End. Later in his life, he immigrated to America and became a naturalized citizen. "Bell, Book and Candle" was one of his last works and was later made into a film starring James Stewart and Kim Novak.

Director Elina de Santos is an American director who has produced, directed and taught in Los Angeles, New York City, Canada and Australia. De Santos is currently the co-artistic director of the Rogue Machine Theatre in Los Angeles. Past directing credits include: Deaf West Theatre's "Romeo & Juliet: Circus Verona" (adapted by Elina de Santos;) WCJT's productions of "All My Sons," "Death of a Salesman" and "Broken Glass;" and Rogue Machine Theatre's World Premieres of "In the Valley of The Shadows," "Nice Things," "Dirty Filthy Love Story," and "Razorback."

The cast of "Bell, Book and Candle" includes Aaron Ford, Joshua Johnson, Genevieve Kauper, Noah Michal, and Rey Pulice.

Scenic design is by Todd Faux, lighting design is by Conner Purzycki and assisted by Aaron Aceves, costume design is by Kaylynn Sutton, sound design is by Lauren Zuiderveld and hair/makeup design is by Chloe Caderette.

"Bell, Book and Candle" plays at 8 pm on November 17, 18, 30, December 1, 2, 7, 8, 9 and November 19, December 2, 3, 9, 10 at 2 pm on. General admission tickets are $14 ($12 with advance Titan Discount purchase for students, seniors or with a CSUF ID). All tickets are $14 at the door. Tickets are available by calling (657) 278-3371, 11 am-5 pm, Monday through Friday and online.

Soon to follow in the CSUF season is "Fall Dance Theatre:" an adventure in story-telling coordinated by Gladys Kares, running November 30-December 10, 2017 in the Little Theatre. "Fall Dance Theatre" combines student, faculty and guest artist choreography in a mix of classic, jazz ballet and modern dance.