New play at the Schwartz Center charts an emperor's reign, Feb. 16

Under the working title "The Nero Project," students and faculty in the Cornell Department of Theatre, Film and Dance are developing a new play depicting the reign and downfall of the volatile Roman Emperor Nero. Written by New York playwright/poet Steven Sater with Cornell Assistant Professor of Theatre Beth Milles, "The Nero Project" script chronicles eight events in the life of the politically corrupt and extravagant ruler.

Director Beth Milles, left, works with members of the cast in developing the script for "The Nero Project," which will premiere at the Schwartz Center for the Performing Arts on Feb. 16. Andrew Gillis

The play was first workshopped at the Magic Theatre in Los Angeles to create a script that is fluid. "Now, we are imagining the world of the piece," said director Beth Milles. "Actors help find the truths in the characters and may even create and enhance the play's dialogue." Milles is excited to be able to bring this sort of theater process work to Cornell and its students. "Nothing is more powerful than to be involved in creating and developing a new work," she added.

Collaborating with Milles and Sater is well-known composer and recording artist Duncan Sheik. Sheik's 1996 self-titled debut album went gold and spawned the hit single "Barely Breathing." Sheik worked with Sater on his 2001 album, Phantom Moon, and the Broadway musical Spring Awakening.

"The Nero Project" features four of Cornell's Resident Professional Teaching Associates: Sarah K. Chalmers, Laurence Drozd, Godfrey L. Simmons Jr. and Peter Zazzali; and six student actors: Jeff de Picciotto, Reed VanDyk, Barrie Kreinik, Emily Ranii, Colista Turner and Michael Ladd. The Schwartz Center welcomes award-winning guest lighting designer Russell Champa, who comes to Cornell from San Francisco. Milles and Champa worked together on many productions, including the Broadway show God Said 'Ha!' Also collaborating on the look of the production are Kent Goetz (scenery), Richard MacPike (costumes) and Warren Cross (sound).

"The Nero Project" opens Wednesday, Feb. 16, at 8 p.m. Evening performances continue Feb. 17-20 and 23-26. Afternoon matinees will be offered Feb. 20, 26 and 27 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $8 (students/seniors) and $10 (general). A "Meet the Actors" discussion will be held following the Feb. 24 performance. For tickets and information, call or visit the box office in the Schwartz Center for the Performing Arts, 430 College Ave., between 12:30 and 5:30 p.m. weekdays or call 254-ARTS.