Event Article

Hard work and unique people dedicated their time to make the play, Metamorphoses, written by Mary Zimmerman, a magical experience for the show that opens on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 in the Fullerton College Bronwyn Dodson Theater.

Being directed by Gary Krinke and Roger Castellano, the production is still a work in progress.

The piece, unlike most, explores eight separate myths of the "gods behaving badly," explained by Krinke.

Each of the well-known ancient myths will be performed through an extremely contemporary perspective.

The directors have made it their goal to take these old stories and myths then to create something completely modern in order to portray the messages effectively to their audience.

Within each myth, a person is transformed through a body of water, with the water symbolizing life.

Krinke directed this piece in the past; however, he decided to make some changes this time.

With a new cast and new ideas, the play will be performed "in the round," a very unique way to both watch and perform this play.

The music was updated along with fresh costumes and contemporary sensibilities.

Because the transformations of characters happen through water, each and every costume was tested in chlorine and water.

Some materials change when added to chemicals or different elements, making a challenge for the design crew.

However, it was nothing they could not handle.

As well as the costumes being tested, the makeup had to be tested, too.

It is incredible how the actors/ actresses will be doing costume changes and makeup changes throughout the show, not to mention there are eight different stories.

Along with the designing of costumes, makeup, and scenes, the entire cast is just as unique themselves.

"I tried to cast a wide variety from as many different walks of life, ethnic and sexual backgrounds. I have given them the freedom to bring their heritage into this play" Krinke said.

The modern society in America is significantly more diverse than in ancient times, which makes this version of the play so much easier for today's audience to relate to.

There is even an unexpected part in the play with Spanish speaking rather than English.

Along with bilingual characters casted, there is a new mother, a body builder, some very experienced actors and some brand new.

"And they are all learning how to tell stories in completely different ways," Krinke added.

Krinke hopes to reinforce all the lessons in these myths.

As people grow up, myths become less realistic, forgotten, and just old feeling.

However, most people were taught and live by these well known lessons; sometimes it just takes a little reminder, and this time it is going to be a very relative reminder.

Altogether, the show and cast are expected to be very unique. As Krinke said, the production is completely, "magical, tragic, really funny, and tries to teach the audience something."

The cast really understands their stories, and Krinke believes they are "clever" and they feed the show.

Metamorphoses shows Wednesday, May 15 through Sunday, May 19. There are matinee shows at 2 p.m. and evening shows at 7 and 8 p.m.

It is recommended for mature audiences because there is a bit of nudity.