TWU drama presents “The Triumph of Love”

Secret rendezvous, disguises, deception, and bribery will all intertwine to form the theatrical performance “The Triumph of Love.”

Nadiyah Suleiman, Page Editor

The Plot 

This French romantic comedy from the 18th century follows Princess Leonide who falls head over heels for Agis who is the “legitimate” prince of Leonide’s kingdom. In order to be with Agis, Leonide must disguise herself as a man to enter a garden where no women are allowed. A jester and gardener discover Leonide’s feminine identity and must subsequently be bribed. The story continues on to become more complex and confusing, with the hope that love will triumph over all.

Cast and Crew

“The Triumph of Love” was originally written by Pierre Carlet de Chamblain de Marivaux, but was adapted by Stephen Wadsworth. The play is directed by Steven Young.

Junior Drama major with an emphasis on Acting and Directing Riley Jo Payne who will be playing Princess Leonide said: “I was attracted to this role because of how challenging it is. The movement and characterization is so different from any role I have played before. Leonide is a challenging character because of her intentions. Love is her driving force. Although she is trying to do the right thing, she does end up hurting people in the end.”

Other cast members include: Terrence Benard, Nolan Chapa, Matthew Jake Defoore, Michael Johnson, Alle Mims, Britnee Schoville. Don “Captian” Henschel will be providing scenic design and TWU Associate Professor of Drama will be providing the costume design. Technical Director Michael Stephens is in charge of lighting design, and Properties and sound design will be completed by Kayla Biggerstaff and Michael Johnson. The stage manager Crystal Phariss will be assisted by Selena Flores.

Tickets and Show Times

Performances of “The Triumph of Love” will be from April 13 to 17 at varying times in the Redbud Theatre on the Denton campus. Saturday, April 16 at 2:00 p.m. there is a pay what you can performance, where audience members set their own price for a ticket. All other showings cost $10 for adults, faculty, and staff, and $5 for students and seniors.

As a parting note, Payne stated: “I do hope that audiences feel some sort of sympathy for [Leonide]. She is trying to fight the resistance of love throughout the show. She is desperately wanting love to triumph all. To see if she gets her way, you have to come see the show!”

To reserve tickets online or for more information, visit the Drama website.