Gamut Theatre Group Presents BEOWULF, 9/14-22

By: Kelsey Denette Jul. 31, 2012

Gamut Theatre Group has announced the first production of its Stage Door Series initiative for the 2012-2013 season: an original adaptation of "Beowulf", which will be presented on September 14-15 and 21-22 at 7:30 p.m. at Gamut Classic Theatre in Strawberry Square, Harrisburg.

The Stage Door Series began in 2010, and offers diverse, exciting, classically-themed programming with simpler technical elements than a Mainstage season production, focusing simply on the words and emotional journeys in a piece. All productions in the Stage Door Series are Bring Your Own Price, where any size donation buys admission to the show. The Series’ motto is “Come as you are, pay what you will.”

"Beowulf" is an original adaptation by Gamut Theatre Core Company member David Ramon Zayas, who has been interested in staging a performance of "Beowulf" for several years.

“The basic concept is a staging of the epic poem itself, leaving the poetic style and language intact,” explained Zayas. “I've pulled from several different translations to capture the most powerful imagery and rhythm throughout the piece.”

Zayas has cast an ensemble of thirteen actors, including frequent Gamut collaborator Sherman Hawkins, a retired Shakespeare and Beowulf scholar. The remaining ensemble consists of Jim DuBois, Ben Forer, Lydia Graeff, Charles Hooker, Ivan Maldonado, Amber Mann, Clem Onukwibiri, Karen Ruch, Katie Spurr, Fiona Sweeney, Laura Sweeney, and Tom Weaver.

"Beowulf’s" technical elements will be helmed by stage manager Trish DuBois, with sound design by Joe Gualtier and textile design by Philadelphia-based artist Bethany Rusen.

Zayas strived to keep the piece connected to its ancient storytelling culture, achieved partly through the use of Hawkins as The Poet, who illustrates the poem for the audience using the full ensemble.

“Each actor takes their turn in the spotlight and supports one another by creating the myriad environments with rhythm, their bodies, and the minimal stage pieces made available to them. It's a story that glorifies strength and deeds, and that is therefore how it demands to be told: with strength and deeds.”

"Beowulf" will be performed at Gamut Classic Theatre on September 14-15 and 21-22 at 7:30 p.m. Admission to all performances is “Come as you are, pay what you will” – any size donation buys admission. Additional information can be found at gamutplays.org,

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