Southern Oregon University Department of Performing Arts presents “Menagerie: The New Vaudeville”

(Ashland, Ore.) – The Theatre Arts program of the Department of Performing Arts at Southern Oregon University presents “Menagerie: The New Vaudeville” featuring James Donlon, Alina Cenal, Terry Longshore and Jeff Richmond on Thursday-Friday, Oct. 3-4 at 8:00 p.m. in the SOU Center Stage Theatre.SOU faculty James Donlon compiled “Menagerie” from solo works which he has performed internationally over the past four decades. “I call them the ‘Donlon Classics,’ since they have stood the test of time to be enjoyed by audiences worldwide,” said Donlon. “These pieces were inspired by the complicated era of the late 20th century, when the world stumbled forward with confusing wars, civil rights triumphs, assassinations, rock & roll wonder, the counterculture, protests in the streets, revealing road trips, mind/body exploration, the landing on the moon, and computer awe.”
The second act, titled “Circo de tu Corazon” (Circus of Your Heart), premieres new material about a very colorful collection of eccentrics who run a small, lost Latin circus. “Circo de tu Corazon” was inspired by Donlon’s many international performance tours to Mexico and Europe, his experience training clowns for Ringling Bros., Barnum & Bailey Circus, and the amazing masks he has collected by maskmaker Bruce Marrs of Bend, Ore. “I also wanted the opportunity to collaborate with SOU master musicians Terry Longshore and Jeff Richmond who provide a rich audio landscape for the show,” said Donlon. “I join forces in this piece with my talented performance partner, actress Alina Cenal, who brings 30 years of experience in theatre and film to our process.”
Donlon has created and performed original works throughout a 43-year international career in physical theatre. His work is very visual and centered in the physical, but includes language, vocal sound effects, and sometimes site specific locations. Zany humor, the dream state, and social commentary are common themes. His material has been presented in 18 countries and 40 states nationally. It has been performed in the Spanish and Czech languages, and aired on public television throughout America.
Tickets are $15 reserved seating and free to full-time students. The Performing Arts Box Office is located in the Theatre Arts Building lobby. Box office hours are noon to 6 p.m. Monday throughFriday and two hours prior to each performance. Tickets can be purchased with a credit card over the phone by calling 541-552-6348.
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