When I was cast in this production, I knew I was in for long rehearsals, script cuts, quick quips, and a whole lot of laughs. Seriously! Both the cast and crew have been sensational to work with and it has truly been the greatest experience possible to kick off my IB journey with a bang (no pun intended, Bertozzo). Playing the roles of both Maria Feletti and the Constable meant double responsibility (double the cues, double the lines, double the characterization – you couldn’t find two characters more different than these two if you tried), something which I eventually approached (a little carefully, at first) with enthusiasm and an open mind. This meant being on par for visual gags, having carefully chosen comedic timing, and overall ensuring that I did Dario Fo’s characters justice.

Working with a student director was a different experience, maybe one that I’d like to attempt on my own next year. This meant the entire cast (ah, the beauty of having a cast of five) could bounce ideas off of each other and add their own personal touches to every scene they were in. Some of my own ideas even made the final cut and run through! It was really cool to see it all come together, and equally cool to see everyone enjoying the process. It’s definitely an experience that I’m going to remember for years to come, and one I’ll get a little emotional over once curtain call comes.