Beating the Heat This Summer

For the most part, when I want to beat the heat in Bakersfield, I head south for some cooler temperatures.  Whether it’s Six Flags, Hurricane Harbor, or Knott’s Berry Farm, I find that heading out of town for some water park fun is always a viable option.  Prior to this year, I had always lived on campus, so Bakersfield’s summer weather was something I had never been exposed to completely; being that dorm students have to move out of their rooms by the end of finals to avoid paying the summer fee. However, taking classes in the Spring quarter gave me a taste of what the summer months must have been like.  Last Summer, I was out of state for a couple weeks, and I’m planning to do the same this year.  When I return, however, who’s to say what awaits me for my summertime adventures. I’ve never been to the San Diego Zoo, or Raging Waters, or even the Golden Gate Bridge! There’s so much to do, yet so little time.

 

Just because it’s Chekhov doesn’t mean it’s boring

After spending some time around the cast and crew during the run, interviewing their director about the production, and catching parts of the show myself, I can honestly say that this was  a play worth seeing.  I understand that Theatre’s not for everyone, but of the general audience we had, I’d say that the majority of them enjoyed this show, and were able to appreciate the message that Chekhov intended to communicate.    

A Story of Tragedy and Triumph at the Dore Theatre

For all you Theatre goers out there, CSUB’s spring production of The Cherry Orchard, will be opening on Thursday, May 23^rd and running until Saturday, May 25^th.  The show will be running the following weekend as well, with performances on May 30, 31^st, June 1^st and 2^nd.  The play is Anton Chekhov’s last play, set in early nineteenth century Russia.  The play is essentially a story about a woman who has found herself buried in debt and is on the verge of losing her family’s beloved cherry orchard because of it.  This production is being directed by Dr. Maria-Tania Becerra, who is also a Professor of Theatre here at CSUB. “I’ve approached it as a comedy,” says Becerra, “but it is tragic.” 

Becerra has directed six productions here at CSUB, and The Cherry Orchard marks her seventh. “It came out of the modern drama class, we were discussing it and the students loved it.” I had the chance to sit down with Dr. Becerra and find out a little more about the playwright, his intentions for the show when it was written, and how she feels about the production overall. 

As a Theatre student myself, I’ve only been exposed to the works of Anton Chekhov once. That was in my Acting II class here at CSUB.  Prior to that, I don’t think I’d ever even heard of the playwright, let alone known who he was.  And now, with this show opening, some of my peers complain that it’s going to be boring, simply because the play is by Chekhov; others even said that they didn’t bother to audition because the play is by Chekhov.  With all of this negative feedback about the show before it even opens, I thought it would be best to get a word from the director on the playwright and boy, was I surprised. “Oh, he’s brilliant,” says Becerra.   

“People either love Chekhov, or they hate Chekhov…” says Becerra.  “Either you enjoy the fact that he’s replicating everyday conversation or you’re like, ‘really, just get to it.”    

             The original title of the play was actually, “The Cherry Orchard: A Comedy in Four Acts,” and according to Becerra, Chekhov thought his play was hilarious.  Constantin Stanislavski directed all of Chekhov’s first plays, and when Chekhov introduced this play to Stanislavski, “the two of them fought about it,” says Becerra. Becerra goes on to explain how, as far as comedy goes, this play might be considered a “dark comedy,” if anything. 

 So, whether you’re spending this Memorial Day weekend in town or away, be sure to come see The Cherry Orchard, it’s a really great play!

Cherry Orchard rehearsals

cast members Jonathan Frigillana and Miriam Alqaisi practice their Waltz number

Cherry Orchard rehearsals

one of the many pieces of furniture which will help to create the world of the play

Cherry Orchard rehearsals

members of the cast practice what they know of their dance thus far

Cherry Orchard rehearsals

Dina Waters, choreographer, shows the cast a couple steps

Cherry Orchard rehearsals

actors prepare for their first dance lesson

Bakersfield’s Starting Three

Some people enjoy thunderstorms, some people enjoy sporting events, and then some people enjoy Theatre.  Whether you’re a fan of Shakespeare or Sondheim, Bakersfield’s theatre scene has something to offer everyone.  For some, the idea of having to sit through a play that may range anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 1/2 hours may seem just dreadful, but as for me, going to see a play is always quite the treat.

First up, we have the Empty Space. This theatre has been open since 2003, and I’ve had the pleasure of watching three different shows here. The first show I saw here was The Diary of Anne Frank. Don’t get me wrong, I had seen live shows before, but none quite so special as this one.  Being that this was my first trip to The Empty Space, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the Theatre staff are very friendly and welcoming, which compliments the intimate setting of the Theatre as well.  There is no charge for admission, but suggested donations are $10 for students and $15 for the general public.  Plays run back to back here so there’s always something showing or coming up.

Located at 706 Oak St Bakersfield, CA 93304

Next, we have the Spotlight Theatre. This theatre opened its doors in 1999, and is currently closed for renovation, but once  they’re back in business, I would definitely recommend going to see a show here. Personally, I’ve only had the chance to see one show here, Real Women Have Curves, but once their doors are open again, I will definitely be making my way back to Spotlight for another show or two.

Located at 1622 19th St Bakersfield, CA 93301

Stars Theatre Restaurant and Bakersfield Music Theatre have been around since 1969. Their mission is to produce quality musical theatre primarily with local talent through three venues: Stars Theatre Restaurant, Harvey Auditorium and BMT School of the Performing Arts.  I haven’t had the chance to see a show here yet, but I’ve heard great reviews from my peers!

Located at 1931 Chester Ave. Bakersfield, CA 93301

Plenty to Drink in the ‘Field

Everyone complains that there’s nothing to do in Bakersfield, but if you’re over the age of 21, there’s plenty to be seen-and done. From the Padre hotel- located in the heart of downtown- to your neighborhood bar at Chili’s, Bakersfield’s bar scene is definitely booming. Personally, I prefer to swing by Applebee’s whenever I’m in need of a drink during the week. Their late night happy hour happens seven nights a week, from 9-close. The hosts and servers are always extremely friendly and helpful whether you’re trying to decide on an entrée or choose a cocktail.

 

Sky Bar lounge is also becoming a popular spot in the ‘field, and though I haven’t frequented this location quite as much, the few times I have visited have been memorable.  Being that one of my sorority sisters is pretty good friends with one of the bouncers, I’ve never actually had to wait in line or pay for drinks. The club-like atmosphere is definitely enticing, and you’ll want to make sure you’re you’ve got a designated driver before dipping into this party scene.