Modern 'Rhinoceros' at Grand Valley

Theatre at Grand Valley State University gives a modern twist to its production of Eugène Ionesco's classic "Rhinoceros."

Six performances will run April 2-3, and April 8-10 at 7:30 p.m., and April 11, at 2 p.m. All performances are in the Louis Armstrong Theatre, in the Performing Arts Center, on the Allendale Campus.

Directed by Professor Roger Ellis, the School of Communications' production steps out of the 1940's French village of the original setting, and places it in contemporary America, complete with a hip waitress on roller skates. Ionesco's commentary on the rise of Fascism is transformed into a contemporary look at corporate takeovers and the global dependence on technology.

"The message remains clear, with herding and conformity demonstrating how people let things slide, hoping others will take care of things," said Ellis. "Eventually they realize things have gotten out of control and wonder how to get it back. The focus is on the slide - which continues to occur while all the 'authorities' continue to debate the problem and solutions."

The stage is actively manipulated by the actors as they arrange props and elements and don costumes. Puppets are a major element of this innovative production, which also includes plenty of special effects. The family friendly production runs about 90 minutes including an intermission. Though it deals with very serious issues, it is fun and upbeat.

Tickets $6-12, are available at the box office,  Monday-Friday, from noon-5 p.m., on-line at Startickets.com, by calling (616) 222-4000 or 1-800-585-3737, or with a ticket order form available at www.gvsu.edu/theatre. For more information please call (616) 331-2300.