Linfield University’s Theatre Program returns to the stage in November for the raunchy, comedic musical, “Firebringer.” Produced in collaboration with the Linfield Department of Music, this viral, indie hit hilariously depicts a tribe of cave people who discover the ability to control fire. This play may not be suitable for all audiences due to adult language and is recommended for ages 13 and older. Please note that fog and haze will be used.
Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 10, 11, 12, 17 and 18, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 19 in Linfield’s Marshall Theatre. Tickets are $15 for full price; $13 for seniors (62+) and Linfield employees (two tickets per ID); and $10 for students (any school, one ticket per ID). Seating is reserved. Tickets go on sale on Oct. 26 online at linfield.edu/arts and the box office will open Nov. 8. Located in Ford Hall, box office hours will be Tuesday through Saturday from 3 to 5 p.m. and until 7:30 p.m. on show nights. It will also be open from noon to 2 on Saturday, Nov. 19. Call 503-883-2292 for more information.
“Firebringer” tells the story of Jemilla the Peacemaker, who civilizes her people and gives them purpose, assigning each member of the tribe their own job to ensure the tribe’s safety and productivity. But Zazzalil, who would rather lounge around than work, stumbles on a discovery that will make life easier: fire. As the Firebringer, Zazzalil helps her people protect themselves from woolly mammoths and saber–toothed tigers, and in the process forever alters human impact on the natural world. Exploring the interconnections among civilization, cultivation of natural resources, capitalism, and climate change, “Firebringer” blends rich themes with infectious music and crass cave art. Originally produced by StarKid Productions, the music and lyrics are by Meredith Stephen and Mark Swiderski, the book is by Nick Land, Matt Land and Brian Holden and arrangements are by Clark Baxtresser and Pierce Siebers.
A post-show panel is scheduled for after the Thursday, Nov. 17 performance. David Sumner, professor of English; Ashlie Johnson, assistant professor of psychology; and Lindsey Mantoan, director of “Firebringer” and associate professor of theatre, will delve into the interrelations among human progress, climate change and environmental responsibility.
Cast members include Linfield students Hannah Barlow, Chloe Brady, Lindsey Burns, Caroline Calvano, Lucy Ingham, Daria Jones, Katie Jones, Hannah Jones, Weston Lawrence, Bryce Robertson and Robert Turner.
This production is sponsored by the Linfield Theatre Program, the Linfield Department of Music, the Lacroute Initiative for Advancing the Liberal Arts and the Lacroute Arts Series. The Lacroute Initiative for Advancing the Liberal Arts and the Lacroute Arts Series at Linfield University are both made possible by the generosity of arts benefactor Ronni Lacroute.
Linfield’s Theatre Program continues its 103rd season, themed “A Season of Eco-Theatre!,” with “Eco-Tales,” a series of student-adapted fairy tales, March 9-11, 2023; and “Hurricane Diane” April 27-May 6, 2023.
Please be aware of our COVID-19 policies: Due to the intimate nature of Marshall Theatre, face coverings are strongly recommended to keep every audience member safe, regardless of vaccination status. Tickets will be sold at full seating capacity without distancing between parties. The actors are vaccinated and get weekly COVID-19 tests.
Directions: To reach Kenneth W. Ford Hall from Hwy. 99W in south McMinnville, turn east on Keck Drive at Albertson’s. Take Keck Drive to Lever Street and turn right. Take the next immediate right at Ford Drive into the theatre parking lot. Ford Hall is located at the west end of the parking lot.
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