Christopher Karbo Set for Title Role in CYRANO DE BERGERAC at Archway Theatre

He has been Macbeth, Richard III, and Hamlet, just to name a few of the title roles Christopher Karbo has performed to rave reviews at the Archway Theatre.

A founding resident company member at the Archway, Karbo is known for his mastery of major roles that are both demanding and commanding. Now he tackles Edmund Rostand's indelible swordsman with the prominent protuberance when he takes the stage in the title role of "Cyrano de Bergerac," May 13 through June 11. Performances 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $30.

Directed by Archway producing artistic director Steven Sabel, the Archway's "Cyrano," is a classical production of a script adapted and revised by Joseph Paul Stachura. Complete with all of Rostand's original humor and poignancy, the script tells the memorable tale of Cyrano's love for Roxanne, which he reveals to her only through his front man, the young and handsome Christian.

"It is such a brilliant story. One for the ages, full of outlandish comedy paired with a romantic love story that touches the hearts of anyone who has ever loved from afar," said Sabel.

The classical style production will feature lush period costuming coordinated by Sarah Morris. Presented on versatile set designed by John Eddings, the action of the play readily transports from the Hotel de Bourgogne to the front lines of the war between Spain and France.

"The play has everything - comedic romps, mistaken identities, disguises, a love story, a war story, and even a dramatic ending," Sabel said.

Karbo's fellow company members, Emily Blokker-Dalquist and Jesse Durant play the roles of Roxanne and Christian respectively, along with a supporting cast of 15 other actors.

"It's a huge show, with a big cast, surrounding a great leading man, with a giant nose," Sabel said. Special prosthetics were designed specifically for Karbo by make-up artist Brandon Spear.

"The nose is a very important aspect of the production, both for the humor it brings, and for the basic plot line of Cyrano believing himself too ugly to be loved," said Sabel.

A special preview performance will be held 8 p.m. Friday, May 12. A gala reception featuring food a drinks with the cast and crew will be held following the opening night performance Saturday, May 13. The Archway Studio/Theatre is located at 10509 Burbank blvd., North Hollywood, CA. For additional information, visit www.archwayla.com or call (818)980-PLAY (7529).

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