Aristophanes’ “The Birds” to open on the Ridgewater stage April 21
April 4, 2022
The Ridgewater College Theatre will present Aristophanes’ “The Birds” at the Willmar campus on April 21-23 and April 28-30 at 7:30 p.m.
This adaptation of Aristophanes’ Greek classic is written by Brian Reno and Gabriel Vega Weissman. The story follows Matt and Dillon, two Hollywood producers, who decide to abandon the bureaucracy, stress and shallowness of society to live in the desert among the birds. To gain a life of freedom and tranquility that comes with bird life, they must make a case for why they deserve an avian transformation, but all they have to offer are the pieces of civilization they’ve tried to leave behind.
“This show has been an absolute blast to work on,” said Matt Hegdahl, Ridgewater College Theatre Director. “I’ve enjoyed watching the actors have fun with the creative process, collaborate with each other, and, ultimately, take ownership of the show. I think any director would appreciate that. This play has given the students a chance to expand their skills and hopefully discover new talents and a deeper love for the performing arts.”
Playing the roles of Hollywood producers Matt and Dillon are Skai Heim (from Montevideo) and Hayden Saulsbury (Kensington). The chorus of birds includes Joel Bothun (Willmar), Emily Giere (Spicer), Rae Schallenkamp (Bridgewater, SD), Heidi Imker (Lamberton), Kaleb Krupa (Spicer), and Erin Keenan (Shakopee). Other cast members include Sufyan Harbi (Willmar), Lane Bishop (Brooten), Holly Tavary (Hutchinson), and David Moreno (Benson).
This production has some language that might not be suitable for all ages and would probably be rated PG-13 if it were a movie.
General admission tickets are $5 and are available through the Ridgewater Bookstore or at the door on the day of the performance. Tickets for Ridgewater employees and students are free. Productions are on the Willmar campus in the Fine Arts Building theater. Doors open at 7:00 p.m.
For more information or a campus map, go to www.ridgewater.edu/theater.
