Lauren Klein, left, Christine Howell and David Pickett prepare for NAU's Theater production of 'The Rivals,' which opens Nov 10 in the Clifford White Theater.

NAU Theater production
to woo audiences

The excesses and silliness of romance and are explored in The Rivals, Richard Sheridan's comedy performed by Northern Arizona University theater students Nov.10-18 in the Clifford White Theater.

Set in the 18th century, the comedy follows the romantic exploits of a wealthy swain, Jack Absolute, who is forced to woo a romantic young Lydia Languish in the guise of a poor ensign. As the story unfolds, misdirection, mistaken identities and memorable characters combine onstage to create comic mayhem.

"Lydia Languish is the embodiment of a sigh. She lives to love, in that dreamy, far-away fashion," said guest director Rick Plummer, who has directed more than 150 theater productions. "Jack Absolute is a brash, mischievous army captain looking to have a good time."

Plummer also wrote the biography, Live From the Front: Byline Ernie Pyle, performed at NAU in 2004.

The Rivals will be staged 8 p.m. Nov. 10, 11, 15, 16, 17 and 18, and at 2 p.m. Nov. 11 and 12.

Tickets are $11 for general admission, $10 for faculty, staff and senior citizens, and $8 for NAU students and staff. Call the NAU Central Ticket Office at (928) 523-5661, or go to www.cal.nau.edu/theatre.

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