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Auburn Theatre & Dance explores self-expression in spring semester's 'Orlando'

After sleeping for several days, an adventurous young nobleman awakens to find himself immortal, fashionable and a 20th century woman! From London to Constantinople, this bold and beautiful lady must quickly adapt to the changes within and around her.

Sarah Ruhl's "Orlando" is based on Virginia Woolf's 1928 novel of the same name, a work that has long been celebrated for its fluid and unconventional approach to gender. The play engages with themes of identity, societal expectations and the fluidity of time—making it a powerful and timely piece that resonates with contemporary conversations about gender and self-expression.

Auburn BFA Theatre Performance senior Daisha Flint is set to play the titular character in the upcoming spring production.

"I would describe Orlando as young, adventurous, who tries his best to be poetic. Love, change and acceptance are the main themes of this show," Flint said. "Performing this role and telling this story means the world to me and I only hope to do it justice."  

The story's whimsical and surreal qualities provide an exciting challenge for both actors and the creative team, making it an ideal piece for the dynamic Auburn University Theatre and Dance program to embrace as part of their 2024-25 season. The production uses a non-linear narrative, strobe lights and instrumental music to envelop audiences in a fun and reflective atmosphere.

Director Ashley Butler, known for her keen eye for bringing fresh perspectives to classic and contemporary works, is excited to introduce this production to Auburn's stage. Through creative staging, dynamic performances and a distinctive visual style, Butler aims to highlight the transformative journey of the protagonist, inviting the audience to question the boundaries of gender and self-perception.

"Some of us are never satisfied with the work that we create, and that's why we keep creating, so it is absolutely, I would say, an identity play and in ways that are universal enough that I believe lots of people can relate to it," Butler said. "This play is something of a quest narrative where someone is going through this long journey of self-actualization, of understanding who they are, and how they fit in the world."

"Orlando" will run from Feb. 20 – March 1 in the Telfair Peet Black Box. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the box office website.

Tags: Theatre and Dance Students Arts and Culture