The latest musical to hit Otterbein's campus, "Nine," a play by Maury Yeston, will be premiering May 21 at 7:30 p.m. in Fritsch Theater. Yeston's musical is based on Arthur Kopit's book depicting the life of film director Federico Fellini and the horde of women influencing not only his love life but also his career.
The play is directed by Otterbein theatre professor Chris Kirk with musical direction by associate professor of music Dennis Davenport and choreography by dance coordinator Stella Kane.
Otterbein students participating in the production feel as though it is a labor of love. "The play was done really organically and every cast member was challenged to find their own interpretation," freshman Leah Fox said, who will be performing as a Venetian gondolier.
Sophomore Sara King plays one of Fellini's many loves, but more specifically his muse. King said that this is one of the most difficult plays that Otterbein's theatre program has produced.
"The show itself is confusing because it is based off of a movie with ideas instead of plots," King said. She would advise viewers to listen and pay attention carefully.
Though the play is a musical, King and Fox both feel as though it is more of a drama that just happens to have music. "People can't come into this thing thinking its ‘Oklahoma,'" said Fox. The plot may be hard to follow, but King said "I think they'll enjoy it whether they know what's going on or not."
Many involved in the production feel as though the aesthetics of "Nine" will be just as beautiful as the music and acting.
Kyle McIntire, a freshman costume assistant with the production, praised costume shop supervisor Mari Hain's costume design. "She created a nice visual that partners with the pictures Chris Kirk creates," McIntire said.
King expects Otterbein to be receptive after a successful show given for high school students and senior citizens. "It really is beautiful. The sets and lights and costumes are beautiful and the actors have really put their hearts into it," King said. t&c;
