‘Amadeus’ a transformative theatrical experience
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 02/05/2024 (706 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
Some big names in music are hitting the stage in Brandon this week: Antonio Salieri and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
It is opening night for the Assiniboine Theatre Company’s production of “Amadeus,” a play by Peter Schaffer that tells the fictionalized story of the rivalry between the respected but mediocre composer Salieri and the hugely talented Mozart. Until Saturday, the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium will host the show nightly at 7:30 p.m.
The ATC’s colourful production is led by director Tara Leach. She explained that the play alternates between 1823 when Salieri is older and 1791, the height of his career.
“Audiences who remember the Oscar-winning 1984 movie ‘Amadeus’ will recognize the characters and their favourite moments in Peter Shaffer’s theatrical version, but will also be intrigued by significant differences and surprises, too,” Leach told the Sun on Wednesday.
Leach has an extensive theatrical history, beginning in 2010 when she played Juliet in Mecca Productions’ “Romeo and Juliet.” Since then, she has participated in more than 14 productions across several theatrical companies in Manitoba, including ATC.
Leach is not the only seasoned dramatist involved in “Amadeus.” Lead actress Kelsey Simpson, who plays the wife of Mozart, Constanze Weber, has been acting on stage for more than 25 years.
“I love relating to this character in different ways, because there’s lots of parts that are sweet, but there’s also a lot of parts that are sort of powerful as well,” Simpson said about the role.
Beyond the acting and directing, the work behind the scenes has made for a transformative theatrical experience. Set designer Bob Penner went so far as to build a piano for the production. Synthia Wright’s prop creation and sourcing complement Penner’s work to complete the “visual extravaganza,” Leach said.
The full beauty of Marilyn Hardy’s costuming was on display at the dress rehearsal Wednesday night. The period clothing was designed for each character’s unique personality.
Personality runs through ATC’s “Amadeus,” but Leach emphasized the teamwork that went into creating it.
“Every actor in this play, no matter the size of their role, is performing with great heart and skill, as is each crew member, production team member and volunteer.”
» cmcconkey@brandonsun.com
