Aloha Performing Arts Company recently completed casting for its June production, “Waiting for Godot,” the landmark absurdist comedy by Samuel Beckett.
Rehearsals are underway, with a cast of four men and a boy. Marshall Gluskin, who has played major roles in Aloha Performing Arts Company productions such as “Guys and Dolls” and “Jesus Christ Superstar,” plays Vladimir, and his onstage partner, Estragon, is played by Rich Mears, who is a founding member of the Alohahas, the Aloha Performing Arts Company-affiliated improvisational comedy troupe. Pozzo, a whip-wielding autocrat, is portrayed by Matt Mohi, who was recently seen as Mordcha, the innkeeper in “Fiddler on the Roof.” Victor Pisauro takes the role of Pozzo’s menial, Lucky. Pisauro is also a co-producer of the show, along with Tracey Fosso. The cast is rounded out by 9-year-old Vincent Hicks, who plays the mysterious Boy, who appears briefly at the end of each act. Jerry Tracy is directing, assisted by Melissa Atwood. Designers include the aforementioned Pisauro, set; Becca Hamar, costumes; boB Gage, lighting; Miguel Montez, sound; and Kerry Matsumoto, props. Matsumoto will also serve as stage manager. Technical direction is by Gill Pecceu, and other staff members include Paula Cornwell, Toni Reynolds, Juanita Finkenberg, and Normetta Muir.
“Waiting for Godot” opened in Paris in 1953, and has since become a cornerstone of modern theater. The story revolves around two seemingly homeless men waiting for someone — or something — named Godot. Vladimir and Estragon wait near a tree on a barren stretch of road, inhabiting a drama spun from their own consciousness. The production runs June 13 through 29 with performances at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. Sundays at Aloha Theatre in Kainaliu.
Tickets are $20 for general admission, $17 for senior citizens and young adults, and $10 for children younger than 18. Tickets are available at alohatheatre.com, at the box office beginning one hour prior to curtain time, or by phone during weekday office hours at 322-9924.