photo by Eric Johnson

Shane May playing Willy Loman and Jessica Beske, playing Linda, rehearse a scene from the “Death of a Salesman,” a Riverland Theatre presentation that starts tonight Frank W. Bridges Theatre.

‘Death of a Salesman’ opens tonight

By Rachel Drewelow (Contact) | Albert Lea Tribune

Published Wednesday, November 18, 2009

AUSTIN — The classic American drama “Death of a Salesman” opens tonight at the Frank W. Bridges Theatre.

Riverland Theatre presents the Pulitzer Prize and the Tony Award-winning play, written by Arthur Miller, through Sunday.

“Miller had this belief that the common people are very important,” director Jerry Girton said.

Prior to “Death of a Salesman,” protagonists were always royalty, or wealthy, he explained.

“This is the story of a common man, and his loss is as great as the loss of a king,” he continued.

The story is that of one man’s quest for the American dream in 1949. Willie Loman is a failing salesman struggling to understand his lack of success and happiness. In his reflection of the journey that did not lead to the realization of his dream, Loman’s soul-searching reveals a tragic flaw.

“The students have been working very hard on it,” Girton said.

Shane May, who plans to graduate in 2010, plays Lomen. Earlier this semester he appeared as the Bum in “The Wedding Singer.” He has performed numerous parts in various Bridges’ productions, and was involved in the Rochester’s theater scene before coming to Riverland.

Riverland Theatre’s current season is built around American Theatre. They present “Death of a Salesman,” and later this season, “Oklahoma!” as the classics. Later they will stage more contemporary American works.

“Death of a Salesman” is recommended for audiences ages 12 and over. Tickets are $12. All proceeds go to Riverland Theatre scholarships.

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