CSUB theatre teaches Everyman about morality

By Carlos Cruz
Staff Writer

The holidays have gone and passed, and many of us are still indulging in all the gifts we have received. Whether it be that new iPod, the new video game system or even that new wardrobe, these material things have brought us great joy and delight. However, we must not forget the values and morals we all hold dear - those are of true importance.
"Everyman" is one of the plays that the CSUB Theatre ensemble will perform this quarter. Directed by the theatre's very own department chair, Mandy Rees, this story depicts how everyone should live their lives and how prepare ourselves for death.
"The material necessities we all have won't go with us to the end, it is our morality that will save us," says Rees.
Written in the 1400s, "Everyman" is a medieval and allegorical play that knows no boundaries, it is representative of all humanity in every giving time period.
Senior Michael Mejia, who has performed in nine other CSUB performances, portrays the protagonist of "Everyman." The character goes on a journey where he faces trials and sacrifices, meets other characters which depict fellowship, knowledge and goods. These will befriend and test him. It is only when he meets Good-Deeds that his search for grace begins to become clear.
As Mejia believes, "good deeds count in the end."
Everyman will play on February 26, 27, 28 at 8 p.m. and have afternoon performances on February 28 and March 1 at 2 p.m. in the Arena Theatre. General admission is $10, $8 for seniors (60+) and CSUB Faculty/Staff and $5 w/student ID. Seating is limited, reservations are available by calling ahead 654-6070.
Another performance we can expect from the theatre department this quarter is "Gold Fever" by Rita Grauer and John Urquhart, directed by CSUB Theater Education teacher Kamala Kruszka.
It is a humorous and imaginative play for young audiences. It is set during the historic California Gold Rush and it illustrates the conflict of personal greed and the importance of compassion for others.
"Gold Fever" will play on March 14 at noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and March 15 at noon and 2 p.m. in the Arena Theater. General Admission is $5, children ages 12 and under get in free. Limited seating, reservations available 654-6070.
A bit further down the line, the CSUB Theatre Department will perform the 2003 Pulitzer Prize winning play, "Anna in the Tropics," by Nilo Cruz, and it will be directed by Dr. Maria-Tania Becerra. It is set in Florida during the depression and depicts the last of Cuban cigar makers who attempt to create a little bit of the city they left behind only to find failure and betrayal.
It is schedule to play on May 21, 22, 23, 28, 29 and 30 at 8 p.m. and May 31 at 2 p.m. $10 General admission, $8 for seniors (60+) and CSUB faculty and staff and $5 with student id.