Eugene Ionesco's “Rhinoceros” comes to the Limelight Theatre! It is the first time ever that Limelight has produced Absurdist Theatre in its 33-year history.
Ionesco is the father of Theatre of the Absurd, which revolutionized the theatre landscape of mid-century Europe and then beyond.
“Rhinoceros” was written in 1959, inspired by the rise of Nazi Germany. In this action-packed allegory that warns of the dangers of nationalistic fervor, mob mentality and the rise of destructive political forces, a provincial village is overrun by rhinoceroses. A young man watches his world descend into the chaos of the stampede, and he is faced with the moral dilemma of his own identity in the face of societal decay.
Absurdist Theatre usually explores existentialism, allegory or symbolism of great magnitude that explores societal insanities and agonies of the human condition.
Limelight is doing something special for “Rhinoceros” audiences. Anyone who comes to the show wearing something absurd will be entered in a drawing for a chance to win a free ticket to every show in the next season. The staff will take photos of each participating patron and vote on the best participant.
The cast of “Rhinoceros” is: Alberto Peart (Berenger), Collin James (Jean), Trevor Kluckman (Dudard), Nicole Maahs (Daisy), Charles Ross (Proprietor), Anthony Romero (Grocer), Emily Panek (Waitress), Michael Gale (Botard), Megan Rodriguez (Housewife With Cat), Amelia Gale (Old Gentleman), Hannah Shaeffer (Logician), Nicholas Frost (Papillon) and Dolores Gende (Mrs. Boeuf).
The director is Mary Claire Branton.
For tickets, go to limelight.ludus.com or call the box office at 904-825-1164.
Limelight Theatre is located at 11 Old Mission Ave., St. Augustine.
Limelight Theatre presents at least three straight plays each year in addition to five musicals. The education program provides classes for adults and children, producing an additional five shows per season.
Limelight has cultivated loyal patrons and subscribers who enjoy Broadway on a small scale in St. Augustine. The talented visual and performing artists, directors and designers work around the clock to turn out riveting theatre. Limelight students are able to hone their skills and grow their careers in professional theatre and film.
