“Arcadia” is a mental workout for all in attendance

by | Mar 3, 2011 | News Slider

Of “sex, death, and algorithms!”–Arcadia, written by Tom Stoppard and Directed by Ted Swindley, premiered on February 26, 2011 by Lipscomb University Department of Theatre in conjunction with Blackbird Theater. Set in the picturesque estate of Derbyshire, England, its mind boggling plot is interweaved throughout the timelines of classicalism and romanticism. Through a mixture of mystery, romance and comedy, it engages the intellectual mind to think about one’s theories and approach to life. The theme throughout the play was “what do we know, how do we know, and do we know?” This theme unfolds as the hilarious clash of personality opposites, Hannah Jarvis and Bernard Nightingale, collaborate to solve the mystery concerning “Sidley Park.” The young Thomasina Coverly and her modern counterpart Chloe Coverly inspire the revolutionary thinkers in all of us.  The characters, in the splendor of their costumes, were brought to life by a team of seasoned professional actors and talented university students, each adding their own flavor and uniqueness to the story. The actors portrayed their characters so well that you’d feel as though you were time travelling back and forth between old England and modern day England. The clothing, accents, architecture and everything everything was extremely impressive and believable. If you’re a fan of romance, comedy and a twist of mystery, then this is definitely the play for you. It inspires both artists and scientists alike to think about what we know and how we know it. I do warn you however, that this play will evoke your senses. You’ll want to discover the meaning of life, find the meaning behind the phrase “Et in...