MSA Theater Presents the Drama Of Dance

theater arts instructor Rodney Franz is thoughtful and visionary in his approach to mounting a show. With a resume that includes impressive credits in teaching, directing and performance, he's not content to assemble a random collection of one-act plays and scenes, which is a more typical offering in educational theater. Franz has built a performance of acting vignettes that share a powerful theme: dance.

Franz and his MSA theater students will present songs and scenes that "explore the idea of dance as central to the human condition" when the  show opens in 's performing arts building Jan. 21 and runs for two weekends.

The program consists of the one-act play "The Dancers," by Horton Foote, and excerpted scenes from Brian Friel's "Dancing at Lughnasa." Popular dance songs playing as "curtain warmers" in between the acts include "The Music That Makes Me Dance" from "Funny Girl" and Irving Berlin's "Cheek to Cheek."

"Dancing at Lughnasa" is set in 1936 rural Ireland in the home of five sisters who jointly raise the youngest sister's illegitimate son. "The language and story (of the play) are so beautiful," Franz says. "That was the departure point.

From there it seemed natural to couple it with Horton Foote's tender one-act, 'The Dancers,'" about a shy, teenage boy as he musters the courage to attend his first dance. The play, set in Texas in the early '60s, uses humor and pathos to examine the relationship of a domineering mother and her inhibited son.

Franz said he is committed to challenging his students with these plays, which he describes as "beautiful actors' pieces."  He adds, "The relationship between language and dance is fascinating." 

The consideration that Franz gives to content also is given to the exploration of acting. He says the material provides opportunity for "strong ensemble work."

MSA theater arts student Jess Chanliau, who plays Maggie in "Dancing at Lughnasa," is learning about the power of ensemble acting. "It has been a pleasure exploring the characters and their lives," she says. As for her relationship with the actors offstage, "We really do feel like a family," she adds.

The evening is geared to middle school-aged audiences and older because of some adult themes in "Dancing at Lughnasa." 

If MSA's theater program achieves its goals, the students will serve up some thematically rich, well-acted entertainment. In fact, Chanliau commits herself "to not just act but to really feel and do the task at hand, taking in the amazing words that are being said."

The show performs at 7 p.m. Jan. 21, 22, 28 and 29, and at 2  p.m. Jan. 23 and 30. Tickets are sold at the door, though advance purchase is recommended because of frequent sellouts. To to buy advance tickets, go to http://www.brownpapertickets.com/group/205919 or call 800-838-3006. Admission is $8 for students and seniors, $15 for general admission and $20 reserved.