The University of Rhode Island Theatre Department will stage the musical “Ride the Cyclone” beginning April 17 at the Robert E. Will Theatre on the Kingston Campus, according to an April 6 announcement. The production will run for eight shows and features a creative team composed of faculty, alumni, and students.
The show is described as a modern cult classic that resonates with young audiences through its unique blend of humor and poignant themes. The story follows six teenagers from St. Cassian High School in Uranium City, Saskatchewan, who compete for a chance to return to life after dying in a roller coaster accident.
Directed by Assistant Theatre Professor Rachel Walshe with support from student assistant directors Jay Harkness and Parker Frenze, the production highlights student involvement both on stage and behind the scenes. Walshe said, “Young adults can easily relate to these characters; the challenges of being a teenager. Several archetypes in the play are equal parts audacious and campy, and really moving. I think one of the show’s virtues as a piece of art is the balance between the untimely death of young people wrapped in a silly premise.” Musical direction is led by alumna Emily Turtle while Dante Sciarria serves as choreographer.
Student participation extends into technical roles such as set construction through stagecraft courses. David Howard, professor of costume design, said, “Everything is from the ground up. People here are making the impossible possible.” Senior theatre major Kayla Senn detailed her experience working closely with scenic designer James Horban: “Starting last August, I worked closely with James Horban… I wouldn’t be in this position without James. I look up to him greatly; he is the best we have here,” Senn said.
Performances are scheduled for April 17-18 and 22-25 at 7:30 p.m., with matinees on April 19 and 26 at 2 p.m., all held at Robert E. Will Theatre in URI’s Fine Arts Center on Upper College Road. Tickets are available online or at campus box offices.
