Chorus Sings Grecian Theme In Medea Play

Fullerton College Hornet  - Staff Writer - Friday, November 3rd, 1967
WOMEN OF CORINTH - Acting as companions to Medea in the production being staged in the Campus Theatre, the chorus adds interest to the theme of the play. Besides memorizing their lines, the actresses have also learned to sing and dance for this play. Members of the chorus are Peggy Tramel, Beckie Villalvazo, Karen Hopkins, Helen Moss, Ambra King, Jan Levin, Barbara Perlini, Linda Schoner, Teri Ralph and Phyllis Alongi.

Gliding their way across the stage, nine young women have immersed themselves in the parts of all ages. They have learned how to speak, move, act and dance in the ancient tradition of Greece.

These women act as the conscience and companions of Medea, in the production being staged tonight and tomorrow night at 8 in the Campus Theatre. They speak most of their lines and supplement them with modern dance movements.

GRECIAN COSTUMES
The women will span three age groups: very old, middle-aged, and very young. Phyllis Alongi, one of the chorus members in this play said, "Our costumes will be basicly. Grecian with contrasting shades of green to show our ages. Each costume is a little different, like a light green gown with a dark green belt for a young woman.

One interesting custom of the Greek theater that will be used in this play is the wearing of masks. They are used to hide the player from the audience. This practice goes back to the days when it was less than honorable to be an actor.

Explaining the chorus part, Phyllis said, "Acting as Medea's conscience, we talk to her and try to make her realize what she is doing when she is planning evil things."

LEARN DANCES
Along with memorizing their lines, the actresses who play the women of Corinth had long and arduous sessions with the choreographer to learn the movements and timing of their dances. The women of Corinth are played by Helen Moss, Peggy Tramel, Beckie Villalvazo, Karen Hopkins, Ambra King, Jan Levin, Barbara Perlini, Linda Schoner, Teri Ralph, and Phyllis Alongi.

These actresses have learned the chant-like singing that is characteristic of their roles.