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Mary Jo Lodge, assistant professor of English, won rave reviews for her direction and choreography of The Grecian Formula, which was recently performed at the New York International Fringe Festival.
The Grecian Formula is a hypothetical re-creation of ancient Greece’s first theatrical performance. Being the initial staged drama, this bedrock of modern theater spawns the first producer, first ‘idea man,’ i.e. ghostwriter, first Tony Award, and of course, the first snide critic. The play was written by Carter Anne McGowan, New York City playwright and assistant professor and director of the arts management program at Long Island University/C.W. Post’s School for Visual and Performing Arts.
A satirical critique of American culture and theater, Broadway in particular, the play earned four stars from TimeOut.com/NY, and was declared “unflaggingly energetic, quick-witted, and filled with refreshing asides” by nytheatre.com.
“Mary Jo Lodge directs the sparkling ensemble with assurance and enthusiasm,” says the village VOICE.
Reviews:
“It is always thrilling to be involved with the original production of a new play.” says Lodge. “But Grecian was especially fulfilling not only because the script is so strong, but also because the material, which is about the creation of theatre itself, is so close to my heart. It was also exciting to work with an incredibly talented cast of professional actors.”
Lodge was also able to involve several students whom she had previously taught, including English graduate Elena Dones ’07, and have them work side-by-side with established Broadway actors.
This fall, Lodge will be directing and choreographing the College Theater production of Urinetown, The Musical, running Oct. 29 – Nov 1.