A story of love that flourished in a time of hate will be taking over Princeton as Black Arts Company: Drama puts up their spring production, "Aida." Street caught up with director, Reena Glaser ’14, to find out more about BAC Drama's riveting production of Elton John and Tim Rice's timeless musical.
Q: How did you first become involved with BAC Drama?
A: I became involved with BAC Drama during my freshman spring semester because I had friends in the company who had been in other performances with me. Also, they were producing a musical revue, "Routes," and I can never turn down a chance to belt on stage! I then performed in the student written show, "A Balancing Act," and around the time of this performance, I pitched my idea for Aida to the board. Once they agreed to work with me, it was full steam ahead.
Q: How many productions does the group put up each year?
A: BAC Drama usually has two productions a year: their esteemed One Acts performance in the fall and usually a larger production in the spring.
Q: How did BAC Drama decide to produce "Aida"?
A: The directors of "Aida" were looking for a theater board to fund and produce our project. We pitched our ideas and our goals to the board, and they let us know that they were interested and would do whatever it took to make this production possible.
Q: Could you summarize the plot of "Aida" for us?
A: Aida takes place during the tensions between the kingdoms of Nubia and Ancient Egypt, and as such, forbidden love emerges between the warring territories. The Nubian princess is captured and must hide her identity to survive and try to help her fellow countrymen. The complication: She falls in love with an Egyptian, the man who is to be wed to the Pharaoh's daughter and who is destined to take his place. Can she help her people, save herself and be with the one she loves?
Q: Can you describe your experience directing this show?
A: "Aida" has been the most challenging, as well as the most rewarding, experience I have ever had. I have grown so much artistically as a director, and I have learned how to accomplish the many things that go into producing a show. I have also had the privilege to work with some of the most dedicated and talented people on campus. This group of people has inspired me to go above and beyond in every aspect of the show.
Q: What has been your proudest achievement with regard to this production?
A: My proudest achievement is my team. The people I have congregated for this production have given so much to the show, and I could not be here without them. I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity to work with them, learn with them and grow with them.
Q: How long has the company been rehearsing?
A: We started rehearsing for "Aida" in early November, so we have been rehearsing for three months.
Q: What are the highlights of the show?
A: Some things to make sure to look out for are "My Strongest Suit," "Elaborate Lives" and "The Gods Love Nubia." These numbers showcase the amazing talent of our company and our leads, as well as the romantic chemistry between the lovers, Aida and Radames.
Q: Is there anything else you want to add?
A: There are so many reasons people should come see this show! Our cast is ridiculously talented and has worked so hard to get all of the intricate singing and dancing parts. We have a 14-person pit that rocks out each and every performance. Our technicians have worked tirelessly to create all of the lights, sound, props, set, etc. that establish what we have been calling the "Aida world." And lastly, we have a wonderful company board that has made every single step possible along the way. This musical really displays the efforts of the 60-something people who have dedicated themselves to it, and because of that, the show is certain to be one that the audience will not forget! Come see as the cast literally shines under the stars!
Friday-Saturday at 8 p.m.
Saturday at 2 p.m.
Frist Film/Performance Theatre
Interview conducted, condensed and edited by Street Staff.Read More
Stories Untold: A Baba Yaga Fit for the 21st Century
Sam DorseyHow are we to reconceive of Baba Yaga and the ire she draws from society in light of the crimes of those like Henry? Where one justice system might fail, does justice enter into the hands of another? “Yaga” presents the audience with the opportunity to sit with these questions and see how they play out on the stage.
How are we to reconceive of Baba Yaga and the ire she draws from society in light of the crimes of those like Henry? Where one justice system might fail, does justice enter into the hands of another? “Yaga” presents the audience with the opportunity to sit with these questions and see how they play out on the stage.
‘King of the Yees’: Using humor to embrace the Asian-American identity
Russell Fan“The lanterns faintly illuminated Berlind Theatre just as they had illuminated the consciousness of identity for Lauren Yee, daughter of the King of the Yees.”
“The lanterns faintly illuminated Berlind Theatre just as they had illuminated the consciousness of identity for Lauren Yee, daughter of the King of the Yees.”
Lighting up stories of Asian joy: Reflections on "King of the Yees" from its lighting designer and cast
Emily MillerThis way there is not just diversity in the stories being told, but also diversity in where Asian actors can perform.
This way there is not just diversity in the stories being told, but also diversity in where Asian actors can perform.
