Stagecrafters Presents Metamorphoses: A Rare Theatrical Marvel on 2nd Stage

Stagecrafters presents the drama Metamorphoses, April 13-22, on 2nd Stage at the Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. Lafayette Avenue, in downtown Royal Oak.

Metamorphoses is based on the classic myths of Ovid, and was originally written and directed by Mary Zimmerman. Original music composed by Willy Schwartz. This production is a rarely seen theatrical marvel that unfolds in and around a giant pool of water. Amid this aquatic setting, mythological figures come to life in a series of innovative vignettes that retell ancient myths in a contemporary voice. Among them: the story of King Midas is told by his laundresses; Phaeton sees a therapist about his coldly distant father, Apollo; and the tale of Narcissus takes a surprising turn.

According to director Jody Florkowski, transformation is the center of the show theme. "The first noteworthy aspect of this show is the pool.The myths in Ovid's Metamorphoses center around change, and there is no better representation of ever-changing landscape than a body of water."

"Also noteworthy with Metamorphoses, is that our 10 actors and actresses portray 78 characters during the span of 90 minutes. This is both challenging and exciting for the cast," says Florkowski.

This production is a wonderfully crafted piece of visual art and every movement adds to the story. The literature and historical elements bring the myths of Ovid to life.

In addition to the interesting storyline, there will be a battle scene that takes place in the pool, which adds another dimension to the performance. Combat coordinator Brian Moultrup says, "the combat sequences vary in intensity and are not exactly clear cut like a more traditional production. Of the many productions I have combat choreographed, this is definitely one of the most unique opportunities. I look forward to working with my cast mates on this challenge as we cultivate the marriage of combat and grace without sacrificing truth and motive."

Metamorphoses runs approximately one hour and thirty minutes and is rated PG-13.

Metamorphoses premiered in 1997 at Lookingglass Theatre Company in Chicago.

Show tickets are $20 for all performances. Due to the intimacy of 2nd Stage and the proximity of the stage to the door and seating area, there will be no late seating. Please plan ahead as the exterior doors are locked promptly at 8:00 pm. 2nd Stage is wheelchair accessible via our elevator, however, there is no space for wheelchair parking to watch the show. Patrons must be willing to transfer to a seat (steps involved) if they would like to attend a 2nd Stage production. Please call in advance if you are a wheelchair user.

Tickets may be purchased online at stagecrafters.org (online handling fees apply), or by phone at 248-541-6430, Monday through Friday, from 10 am to 2 pm, using Visa or MasterCard. All seats are reserved and there are no refunds or exchanges on individual tickets. If shows have not sold out, tickets may be purchased at the box office one hour prior to the performance.

On Thursdays Active military personnel and their immediate families are eligible for a buy one ticket, get one half-price ticket discount (limit of six tickets, some exclusions may apply). Students (with a valid ID) are eligible for a half-price ticket discount for the first Thursday performance of 2nd Stage shows. Student discount tickets are available at the door the evening of the performance. Students must show their current student ID at the box office window (one ticket per student ID). Doors open at 7 pm.

Stagecrafters is in its 62nd year of providing opportunities for members of the community to develop their talents and to volunteer their time to create an enriching, quality theatrical experience through its Main Stage, 2nd Stage, and Youth Theatre productions. Stagecrafters has been named Best Community Theatre by Hour Detroit, Detroit Metro Times and Daily Tribune. In January, the 2017 Broadway World Detroit Awards were announced with Stagecrafters receiving an amazing 10 out of 26 awards. Stagecrafters offers shows that appeal to a wide variety of ages and interests and prides itself on presenting professional quality shows at affordable prices, making the performing arts accessible to all.

Photo Credit: Lance Luce

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