Clear Lake High presents 'The Marriage of Figaro'

It won't be your everyday play when Clear Lake High School's Theatre Department presents The Marriage of Figaro Thursday, Nov. 18, through Saturday, Nov. 20.

Performances are at 7 p.m. in the school's auditorium, 2929 Bay Area Blvd.

Megan Owen, CLHS director of theatre for the past four years, said her revamped version has been developed to create a connection with teens and this classic material that dates back to the late 1700s.

The Marriage of Figaro is the comedic tale of the Figaro and his bride- to-be, Suzanne. Figaro's master, the Count, has his eyes on Suzanne.

Interactions between the characters results in comedic twists and turns, said Owen's, whose adaptation features remixed classical music, classical decorum, powdered wigs and a contemporary version of old text.

"The language isn't as stifled. The music is remixed Mozart," Owen said.

One of our characters writes a song to the tune of Lady GaGa's mega hit Poker Face.

"This is a really great bunch of high achieving theatre students," Owen said. "It's been a good way to connect with classic literature and be entertaining. It's been unbelievable to what they can do."

Student thespians Cherika Manford and John Stewart, will portray Suzanne and Figaro, respectively.

Senior Manford, 17, said audience is going to like the modern twist on a classic play.

"It's really fun to watch. I jumped on the chance to play Suzanne," Manford said.

Manford, 16, said the cast makes the production soar.

"The show has really great characters especially the judge, gardener and the ensemble," said Manford, a senior. "They all work so hard with the transitions and dancing. I think the audience will appreciate the humor, and we've managed to bring it up to date."