In celebration of Women’s History Month, Santa Rosa Junior College Theatre Arts will present a stage adaptation of Virginia Woolf’s 1928 novel, “Orlando,” from March 1 through March 10, at the Frank Chong Studio Theatre.
Directed by Laura Downing-Lee, “Orlando” is adapted from Virginia Woolf’s novel of the same name by playwright Sarah Ruhl.
The show features a young nobleman from the time of Queen Elizabeth I who journeys through five different centuries, exploring gender roles and preferences until ultimately ending up in the modern day.
“In our production, Orlando is played by a female-bodied actor. This casting is suggested by the playwright,” Downing-Lee said. “However, in the course of the play, Orlando transforms from a man to a woman, which is an important element of the story.”
Downing-Lee described the plot as Orlando’s quest to find self-identity, artistic expression and an overall definition of who they are. “There’s an unpinning to the show — into the story — of ‘what does it mean to be a woman within the confines of society?’” she said.
She emphasized that the most important question the play asks is, “What does it mean to be human and to love, regardless of one’s gender?”
Downing-Lee said there’s comedy in the show, which is sometimes missed by people who read or write about the play. “It’s really quite fun. It’s beautiful and touching and sad at moments, but it definitely tips to the comedy,” she said.
“Orlando” will run at 7:30 p.m. on March 1-2 and 6-9, with 2 p.m. matinee showings on March 3, 9 and 10. According to Downing-Lee, the show will run approximately two hours and 10 minutes, including a 15 minute intermission.
Tickets cost $25 for general audiences, $20 for students and seniors and $15 for youths under 12. SRJC CubCard Premium members can claim one free ticket. Tickets are available online or by calling (707) 527-4307. For more details, visit Box Office information.
