Vagabond Production presents "The Path of True Love" Feb. 10-13

Vagabond Productions is back in action, and it is offering a Valentine's Day gift to its audience: a free show. Yes, you read it correctly: admission will not be charged for Vagabond's production of 'The Path of True Love,' February 10 to 13.

Many of you will now be wondering about the catch. According to Greg Doran, coordinator of Theatre Studies and director of the show, there isn't one, really.

'I decided to forego charging admission this year because the show is going to be more experimental in its presentation than past shows.'

Doran went on to explain that to buffer the experimentation, he chose a traditional comedy.

'Granted, the tradition is from the 17th century, but it involves a lot of funny physical comedy. Consider the show a romantic comedy for smart people. The show is in the form of the commedia dell' arte, which is comedy based around stereotypical characters and situations. The script has been updated by Barry Grantham, so there won't be a language barrier. Everyone will be able to understand and follow the show's plot.'

Doran concluded by saying that anyone familiar with the current spate of romantic comedies will immediately recognize the characters and situations in the play.

While regular attendees of Vagabond shows might ask how much more experimental the company can be, Doran says, 'Much more.'

'In the past, Vagabond shows have altered the spectator-actor relationship by reducing the barrier separating the two groups. Well, this year, I have eliminated the barrier completely. There will be no defined performance space at all. The members of the audience can sit where they will, and the actors will perform around them. However, audience members should be prepared to move about in their seats to see everything.'

Doran concluded with a warning for the audience: 'Attending live performance can be habit forming, especially performances that actively engage audiences.'

The show will run from February 10 until 13 in the Faculty Lounge, Main Building, on the UPEI campus. The doors will open at 7 p.m., for a 7:30 p.m. 'curtain.' While admission will not be charged, Vagabond Productions will gladly accept donations to the Theatre Studies Program at the end of each evening's performance.

For more information, you can contact Dr. Greg Doran at 566-6013 or theatre@upei.ca.