By Nadine Rodriguez
Staff writer
Premiering at the Wertheim Performing Arts Center’s Mainstage Theatre Feb. 27 and running through March 8 is Neil Simon’s “Rumors,” a twisted farce both in its comedy and its plot.
To provide a glimpse into the play, two lead actors, Danny Leonard and Natalie Brenes, both senior theater performance majors, shared their thoughts.
“The play is really fun, really funny and very active. It’s a great production,” Brenes said. “I think the audience will really, really enjoy it. It’s for the masses, it’s a mix of slapstick and witty humor. It appeals to everyone.”
“I think the audience is going to have a great time, it’s a lot of farce comedy,” Leonard said. “Opening doors, closing doors, one person is coming in, one person is going out … it will keep the audience guessing and laughing.”
“Rumors” has been produced by dozens of theaters, including Broadway, since its premiere at the Old Globe Theatre in San Diego, Calif. Since every venue brings something new to a show, the students at FIU decided to tackle the play, as well.
“Everything except the costumes is student designed,” said Leonard. “The lights, the set and the sound. There hasn’t been a play like this before in the last five years, the modern setting of it makes it more accessible and relatable.”
“It’s a show that keeps you on the edge of your seat. As soon as you think something resolved itself, something happens. You’re never going to fall asleep,” said Brenes.
According to Leonard there are 12 characters in the play, but the audience becomes the 13th.
“Their reaction, when they laugh, will help the play move along. We want the audience to enjoy the show, so its going to be a new show every night since we have new audience members.” Leonard said.
Director Matthew Glass also spoke about his upcoming production.
“Directing a farce is very difficult: its all about the timing,” Glass said. “You have to be exact and find a structure that is rigid and can’t bend, yet gives the actors enough room to play. It’s all about the door slamming at the right time to cue the next bit that’s going to happen.”
Despite the difficulties, Glass assures that the play is funny.
“Neil Simon has a bad rep, but turn on CNN and take a look around at what’s happening in the world. I think audiences will welcome two hours of just laughter. They don’t have to do anything but enjoy and laugh … I want the audience to dance out of the theater, happy,” Glass said.
Tickets for “Rumors” are $10 for students, $12 for seniors and staff and $15 for general admission.
“We need the audience,” Glass said. “We want an audience and we’re ready. It’s something I don’t often say when directing a play.”
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