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Phantasmal spirits take refuge in comical drama Feb. 29-March 4

BOONE — The Appalachian State University Department of Theatre and Dance presents “The Illusion,” a play about the relationship between parents and children, in the state-of-the-art Valborg Theatre on campus Feb. 29 - March 4.

Performances of this twists-and-turns drama begin at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 29 - March 3, with a 2 p.m. matinee March 4. Ticket prices start at $6 for Appalachian students. For more information visit www.theatre.appstate.edu or call the box office at 828-262-3063.

Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Tony Kushner (“Angels in America”) adapts the work of Pierre Corneille’s “L’illusion Comique” by telling the magical story of Pridamant of Avagnon, played by senior Sean Browne, who is desperate to reconnect with his estranged son. He consults Alcandre the magician, played by junior Victor Rivera, for assistance. From there, the play becomes a fantastical journey of romantic, heart-felt passion, and the important relationship between parents and children. The Appalachian production utilizes a glittering set and elaborate costumes, which lend well to its poetic, fairy-tale nature.

Associate Professor Derek Gagnier directs the play. He describes “The Illusion” as “the joys and pains of being a parent and a child,” and states that “while the production is set in France in 1639, its parables could be as modern as last week.” Gagnier also hopes that the audience may recognize themselves in the characters portrayed by the talented all-student cast.

Tickets are available in person at the Valborg Theatre box office Monday through Friday from 2-5 p.m., online at www.theatre.appstate.edu/performances or by phone at 828-262-3063. Prices are $6 for students and youth (ages 6-18), $13 for faculty/staff and seniors, and $15 for adults. More information is available online at www.theatre.appstate.edu.

The Valborg Theatre is located on the north side of Chapell Wilson Hall on Howard Street. The door faces the back of the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts on King Street. Parking on campus is available after 5 p.m. in faculty lots, the College Street parking deck near Belk Library and Information Commons, and the Rivers Street parking deck.