The Valencia Character Company Presents MARAT/SADE 2/18-28

The Valencia Character Company will present Peter Weiss' play-within-a-play, "The Persecution and Assassination of Jean-Paul Marat as Performed by the Inmates of the Asylum of Charenton under the Direction of the Marquis de Sade," better known as "Marat/Sade." Showtimes are Feb. 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, and 27 at 7:30 p.m., and Feb. 21 and 28 at 2 p.m. in the Black Box Theater at Valencia Community College's East Campus.

The Marquis de Sade-the man after whom sadism is named-was indeed imprisoned at Charenton Asylum where he produced plays with the inmates there. "Marat/Sade" takes place in the asylum, with de Sade directing and acting in a play set during the French Revolution, while the outside world has fallen under Napoleon's rule. The result is a powerful examination of the tension (and similarity) between creation and chaos, government and freedom, revolution and anarchy. "Marat/Sade" offers historical, social and political commentary that is relevant still to the problems of contemporary society. It asks whether true revolution comes from changing society or changing one's self, as Marat implores the audience to "Turn yourself inside out and see the whole world with fresh eyes."
The production features John DiDonna as the Marquis de Sade and Christian Guevarra as Marat, with direction by Valencia theatre professor, Michael Shugg.

Ticket prices are $8 for general admission, and $6 for students, seniors, Valencia
staff and alumni. Valencia's East Campus is located at 701 N. Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando. Seating is limited in the Black Box Theater, so advance ticket purchase is suggested and latecomers may not be seated until intermission. Please be advised that this play contains language and themes that might be offensive to some and are not suitable for children.

For reservations or further information, please call the box office at 407-582-2900. Tickets are also available online at www.redchairproject.com.