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‘Vincent
in Heaven’ explores the life of NU’s patriarch
St. Vincent (Michael Vargovich) |
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Review by Joshua Maloni
Photos by Joe Eberle
Lewiston Porter Sentinel, October 7, 2006
What better way
to mark Niagara University’s long and storied history than with
a long and storied tale of its patron saint, Vincent de Paul?
The NU Theatre Department’s 2006-07 season begins
this weekend with “Vincent in Heaven,” an autobiographical look
into Vincent’s life, as told by the man who founded the Congregation
of the Daughters of Charity and the Congregation of Priests of the
Mission. The production is based on the writings of Brother Augustine
Towey, C.M., the department’s director emeritus, and directed by
Neil A. Casey, an alum who starred in the show when it first debuted
on campus in 1988.
In “Vincent in Heaven,” the “Father of Charity” explains
how his life’s work was – whether directly or not – finding God
in man. Casey describes the production as “An interesting evening
of theater with a lot of humor in the show.” What it is, in fact,
is a comparison of the world in Vincent’s time with what it is presently.
Vincent (Tonawanda’s Michael Vargovich), over the course of two
hours, leads the audience to see that selfish ambition is contrary
to man’s intended purpose, and trusting in God has its rewards.
Whether you’re religious or not, it’s an interesting story – especially
in light of NU’s 150th anniversary.
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Vargovich, who
is tasked with memorizing and recalling large chunks of dialogue,
is well suited to portray Vincent. While his down-to-earth approach
makes the character relatable, it is not at the expense of the saint’s
authoritativeness. Vincent is compassionate, yet forceful. When
he knows he’s right, he works to see that his ideals are carried
out through the work of others.
Matthew Chavez of Amherst plays Cardinal Mazarin,
Vincent’s foil. His performance is wholly reminiscent of Christopher
Guest’s “Six-fingered Man” in “The Princess Bride” in both look
and feel. His matter-of-fact, perfectly composed scheming is sinister
and sly.
Casey Frank also shines as Queen Anne, as both a boss
and friend to Vincent. She too is authoritative and blunt. Yet,
she is kind; compassionate and eager to glean some of Vincent’s
wisdom. Moreover, in her 1600s-era costume, she seems to glow, in
much the same way of a mother-to-be.
As an added treat,
the team of Eric Appleton (scenic and lighting director), Maureen
Stevens (costume designer), Marilyn Deighton, (costumes and make-up)
and Jack Wrobel, (technical director) have constructed a magnificent
set, a huge portico complete with a sky light, sunsets and marble-looking
floors.
“Vincent in Heaven” is on the Leary Theater stage
this month. Performances will be at 8 p.m. on Oct. 6, 7, 12, 13,
and 14. Matinees will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Oct. 7 and at 2 p.m.
on Oct. 8 and 15.
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St. Vincent watches as Michael de Marillac (Jonathan Klatt) and Louise
de Marillac (Charlotte Colby) engage in conversation. |
Production is first since Ward’s passing
“Vincent in Heaven” is the first production the Niagara
University Theatre Department has staged since Tim Ward, a fine arts professor
on campus for nearly 30 years, passed away on Sept. 3. Ironically, Ward
directed the show, and its current helmer, Neil A. Casey, when it debuted
on Monteagle Ridge in 1988.
“It’s been tough for everybody,” Casey said of working on
the show while the department grieves the loss of a friend and mentor.
“I was a mess at the end (of the first rehearsal). I just lost it. It
brought back a lot of memories.
“Tim directed me in this the last time we did it. Tim was
a wonderful teacher and a great guy.”
Casey said the show will be staged in Ward’s honor.
“We’re all going to work hard for Tim, for Brother (Augustine),
and the department,” he said.
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