SMU and TCU open theater productions for this week only

by Shawn Parikh

University theater is a pretty good distraction during the current economic meltdown. Not only are the productions quite professional, but they are a cheaper fare compared to other companies around town. Plus, SMU and TCU"s theater departments are quite reputable and know how to put on a great show. The downside, however, is the run of these shows are limited to one week only, so try and see these while you have the time.

TCU Department of Theatre presented Scapino! from February 24 - March 1. Taking very loosely the plot of Moliere's "Les Fourberies de Scapin", Scapino is very simple. Two young men, Ottavio and Leandro, are left, by their miserly fathers, Argante and Geronte (respectively), in the care of two not-so-attentive servants, Sylvestro and Scapino (also respectively). Of course both young fellows fall in love with young women totally incompatible with their fathers' plans for an arranged marriage. Upon the fathers' return, all hopes, eyes, and gratuitous culinary items are directed toward Scapino, a master of trickery and cunning, to solve the mess and put everything back to rights again. Call 817-257-5770 for tickets.

SMU Division of Theatre is performing Intimate Apparel from February 25 - March 1. Winner of five national awards for best play, including the New York Drama Critics Circle award, Intimate Apparel revolves around the character of Esther, an African-American seamstress living in New York at the beginning of the 20th century who creates beautiful lingerie for society women and prostitutes alike. She falls in love with a Panama Canal laborer who woos her through romantic letters, though she is also admired by the shy Jewish merchant who sells fabrics to her. Tickets can be purchased online.