It may surprise many of UMB’s student body to learn that there is an active theater on campus. In fact, Michael Fennimore’s first question when I stepped into the McCormack Theatre was, “Did you know we have a theater?” I meekly admitted that I knew it existed but that this was the first time I had set foot in it.
Fennimore, a professor in the Performing Arts Department of the College of Liberal Arts, is directing a production of “Scapin” that will be opening Nov. 16. “Scapin” was originally written in 1671 by French playwright Molière. Fennimore said that this production would be working from the Bill Irwin adaptation because “it’s totally out there, outrageous.”
Fennimore is looking to make the play a spectacle. He explained how this adaptation of the period piece includes modern references, live music and dancing. Not to be outshined, set designer and professor Anthony Phelps incorporates two-story houses, flats, a piano and even a working fountain into the set. “I see more being bought for this production than I’ve ever seen before. We’re getting great support from the school on this one,” Fennimore added with a smile, “and I hope I don’t screw it up.”
That said, the budget is still relatively small, and the theater department has to find ways to work around it. “A lot of our props and costume departments are limited [because] of lack of space,” explained Fennimore. Luckily, Phelps was affiliated with Emerson College, which opened its doors and allowed UMB’s theater to borrow costumes.
Fennimore is clearly excited to be working with this production, not only because of the elaborate set and available costumes, but because of the increased participation by UMB students. “Years ago […] if you had 17 people [try out], that was a good turnout. I had to have two days of auditioning because I had over 60.”
The play’s cast and staff are looking to get people excited not only about this play but the theater in general. Fennimore also explained that he does not just want to see the same faces in the crowd every night, and that he’d like to see some staff members: “I’d like to see the provost and the dean.” When I suggested Chancellor Motley, Fennimore’s eyes lit up, “If he walks in, maybe half the theater will fill up along with him.”
Fennimore reflected, “When it comes to the final production, the closest thing I can imagine is like giving birth when you see it all come together.” When asked if he thought it was less or more painful than actually giving birth, he quipped, “My wife would say less but I’d probably say more.”
“Scapin” will be playing in the McCormack Theater Nov. 16 and 17 at 6 p.m., Nov. 18 at 7:30 p.m., and Nov. 19 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Price of admission with student I.D. is $5 and $10 for non-students.
