CU's Schwartz Center to stage Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale

Shakespeare's play The Winter's Tale opens at Cornell's Schwartz Center for the Performing Arts on Nov. 15 and runs through Dec. 1. This romantic play spans several generations and many couples, including these young lovers -- Perdita (played by Thalia Goldstein '02) and Florizel (played by Eduardo Porto Carriero '02). Frank DiMeo/University Photography

In light of the realities of today's world, the lessons inherent in William Shakespeare's epic play The Winter's Tale still stand true: Time moves on when all is well and even when all's ill; rash actions have considerable consequences that never can be reversed; nurture life, as it is fragile and fleeting. Shakespeare explores such themes in this magical and exquisite play, which follows the cause of jealousy through its dire consequences to reconciliation and revitalization.

Director Stephen Cole brings The Winter's Tale to the Kiplinger Theatre stage at the Schwartz Center for the Performing Arts beginning Nov. 15 at 8 p.m. Evening performances continue Nov. 16-17, Nov. 29-30 and Dec. 1. A matinee will be offered Saturday, Dec. 1, at 2 p.m. Tickets in advance are $7 for students and seniors and $9 for the public. Tickets at the door are $8 and $10. Following the Nov. 30 performance, a discussion is scheduled for the audience and members of the cast and crew.

The Winter's Tale has a large cast of 31 talented students and resident professional teaching associates (RPTAs). Playing lead roles are: RPTA Brian Russell (King Leontes), Amy Schleunes '03 (Hermione), Thalia Goldstein '02 (Perdita), Eduardo Carreiro '02 (Florizel), Michael Benn '02 (Autolycus) and RPTA John Payne (Antigonus).

The Winter's Tale is set in the whimsical kingdoms of Sicilia and Bohemia. The set and costumes are a beautiful blend of colors and whimsy based on the work of noted artist Maxfield Parrish. The rich and stunning set is designed by Cornell resident scene designer Kent Goetz. The flowing and fanciful costumes are the work of new Cornell resident costume designer Sarah Bernstein.

For tickets, call or visit the box office in the Schwartz Center, 430 College Ave., 12:30-5:30 p.m., weekdays; 254-ARTS.