LISA THALHEIMER
Arts Writer
If you have ever wondered who Saint Thomas More is, there is a play on campus that will help you find your answer. Newman Players at STM College is currently presenting Robert Bolt’s A Man For All Seasons.
Cast member Jessica McLeod describes it as having “intrigue, emotion and just a hint of romance, which makes for a thoroughly entertaining look at the events surrounding Sir Thomas More’s life and eventual death.”
The play focuses on the true struggle that Thomas More, the Chancellor of England, faces when he chooses to remain silent on his opinion about the possible divorce of King Henry VIII and his wife Catherine. This creates anger among many people, which is furthered when More also refuses to sign the Oath of Succession, which was created to give the King complete power over everything.
“More could have easily vindicated himself,” said director Adam Bay, “but the struggle becomes a tightrope between personal belief and duty.”
Bay has been working on the show since April when he submitted A Man For All Seasons to Newman Players. Since then, work has not stopped on the production of the show. Creation of the backdrop and technical aspects has been happening since June, and the actors were auditioned and cast in September.
The cast and crew are made up of students, faculty and alumni. STM’s Ed Heidt, who has been involved with Saskatoon drama for many years, is making his last appearance in a Newman show before he retires in the spring. He has had a great run with Newman Players, and directed the sold-out production of Jesus Christ Superstar in 2003.
The cast and crew have put countless hours into the show and are extremely excited to present their work.
“There’s some kick-ass acting as well as an awesome set and it’s a great group to support,” says Danielle Spilchen, a drama student who plays More’s daughter Margaret.
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photo: Shannon Kirk
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