Drama brings Casanova to UW

1998 marks the 200^th anniversary of the death of a legend: Giacomo Casanova—musician, philosopher, charlatan, diplomat and oh yes, insatiable lover. From March 4 to 15, the UW School of Drama presents the Northwest premiere of Constance Congdon's sexy, comic take on the 18^th century romancer. Directed by Teri Minton, the play will be presented in the Meany Studio Theatre.

Interweaving decades and distances, Casanova flies with a furious passion through the daring exploits of the inexhaustible seducer. The play begins when one of Casanova's spurned mistresses, Therese Imer, rises from the dead in hot pursuit of her paramour, determined to find him and personally escort him to his grave. What follows is a gorgeous retelling of Casanova's life story, with a cast of 13 playing upwards of 70 roles.

In scenes embracing both the sensual and the sordid, the sacred and the profane, Congdon illuminates the contradictory aspects of sex, power and the elusive links that bind them. "Congdon doesn't give us easy answers," director Minton says, "only tough questions."

Joining Minton for this production are a cast from the Professional Actor Training Program, set designer Aaron Nather, lighting designer James Aitken and costume designer Susan Denning. Tickets for Casanova are available at the Arts Ticket Office, 4001 University Way N.E. ¶