Rhinoceros

By Eugene Ionesco.
Directed by Eric Burton
January 14 - 30

Jean……….. David Barkley
Berenger………… Mikel Mathews
Waitress………… Jessica Stelzer
Grocer/Fireman………… James Wachtel
Grocer’s Wife………... Aubrey Wachtel
Old Gentleman/Botard………… John Chandler
Logician/Mr. Papillon……….. Jeff McGill
Housewife…………………. Cynthia Cobb
Café Proprietor/Dudard…………. Rob Zaleski
Daisy………………….. Katherine Lamb
Mrs. Boef…………… Shawna Smith
Little Old Man…………….. Jim Seay
Little Old Woman……………. Priscilla Seay

Synopsis

Rhinoceros runs at Station in January

The Celebration Company at The Station Theatre presents Eugene Ionesco’s Rhinoceros directed by Eric Burton. Rhinoceros is often considered to be Ionesco’s best work and has been referred to as “one of the masterpieces of the Theatre of the Absurd.” This comedy follows Berenger—depressed, unmotivated, and bordering on alcoholism—as he attempts to navigate the confusion besetting his small French village as it is overrun by swift-footed pachyderms. As the story unfolds, and bipeds become an ever-smaller minority, he finds meaning and purpose in a quest to retain his humanity, flawed as it may be.

Traditionally considered a humorous but pointed jab by Ionesco at the fascism rampant in Europe during the first half of the twentieth century, Burton, his cast, and crew, have discovered within the script a richer dialogue about identity, self, and the power of will within the overbearing pressures of society.

Drawing from Ionesco’s favor for language and tempo, this play is a fast-paced, hilarious adventure and wonderful example of “the absurd.”

Mikel Matthews, Jr. (director of The Full Monty and Zombie Prom) plays the lead, Berenger. His advice-giving friend, Jean, is played by David Barkley (The Mikado and Whitey). Last seen in Three Sisters, Katherine Lamb, plays Berenger’s love interest, Daisy. The rest of the ensemble cast is made up of Company members John Chandler, Cynthia Cobb, Jeff McGill, Rob Zeleski, and Shawna Smith (in her onstage debut). Joining them are new Company members Jessica Stelzer, Aubrey Wachtel, and James Wachtel. Also featured are the vocal talents of Jim Seay and Priscilla Seay, and artwork by various local artists. All shows begin at 8 p.m. Complimentary parking is available directly across the street at Sav-a-Lot.

As the character Jean states, “There’s one [Ionesco play] playing now. Take advantage of it.”