FARMINGTON – Tom Jones is a happy go lucky, charming young man cursed with good looks, a cheerful personality, and a mysterious parentage. Based on the 18th century novel by Henry Fielding, the play adapted by David Rogers, will be performed by the Mt. Blue Theater Company in the Bjorn Auditorium on Mt. Blue Campus Nov. 3, 4, 5 at 7 p.m.
Through a series of misunderstandings, largely caused by his nemesis Blifil (played by Zach Armstrong), Tom Jones (Julian Thomson) is forced to leave his love Sophia (MacKenzie Wells) and his benefactor (Julianna Labul) to travel to the filthy streets of London to “sink into oblivion.” Along the way he meets several characters who both help and hinder him including a Mr. Partridge (Rowan Jellison) who becomes his servant and advisor. In London his attempts to meet up with Sophia are stymied by her cousin Lady Bellaston (Sophie Seigle) and a raving Irishman (Aidan Underwood). Never fear, the story does end happily after the multitude of mysteries are solved in part by the testimony of one Mrs. Waters (Abby McCarthy).
Director Deborah Muise says cast members have been working on this satirical melodrama since early September. They’ve been working on the overacting, melodramatic style and “mugging” to the audience. They’ve also noted the “political incorrectness” of the time particularly regarding women’s roles and the feudal class system.
Teacher Dan Ryder with students Caleb Hutchinson and Tommy Eng have been helping to build the scenery and several students (Audrey Keith, Julia Lowell, Aliya Kaldybayeva, and Azayja Lamb) have helped with painting. Ms. Muise has been assisted in directing by junior Cailyn Correllus who also plays a small part on stage plus acts as the stage manager of the show!
The play is fast paced and silly and appropriate for all audiences. There will be period costumes, a duel, and a horse chase. The cost is $4.50 for adults and $3 for students.
