University of Memphis Spring Dance Concert Will Showcase New Works by Faculty and Guest Artists

The University of Memphis Department of Theatre & Dance presents

THE ARABIAN NIGHTS

In the tales of The Thousand Nights and One Night one beautiful bride Scheherazade knows the power inherent in stories and uses them to save her life. She must spin hypnotic tales of genies, jesters, thieves, and kings – winning her freedom by winning her husband's heart. As long as she keeps the king entertained with her magical stories, he will spare her. Amidst a thousand tales of honor, seduction, revenge, and humor, only love emerges victorious in an exotic place we now know as Iraq.

University of Memphis third year directing candidate Alice Rainey Berry stages Mary Zimmerman's The Arabian Nights on the Mainstage April 12 –14 and 19 – 21. All performances begin at 7:30 pm.

As co-founder and company member of Voices of the South, Alice has spent the past 16 years bringing stories to life on the stage in the narrative style – blending movement, language and music. She was drawn to Mary Zimmerman's adaptation because it allows the ensemble of 16 to explore stories using narrative theatre techniques focusing on the transformative power of story.

Stories are part of our everyday life and storytelling is central to human existence –our way of connecting with each other, sharing personal experiences and letting others be enlightened through them. Stories allow us to be known and understood – and to know and understand others. Story and myth give meaning to our lives.

All U of M students receive a complimentary ticket to the production. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for senior citizens and non U of M students and can be ordered by calling the Box Office at 901.678.2576. For more information call 901.678.3184.

At 6:00 pm in the CFA Lobby opening night, Dr. Kent Schull, Assistant Professor of History and a specialist on the Middle East, will give a thought-provoking lecture that will illuminate the complicated origins of the tales, its literary themes, and its connections to the cultures of the Middle East over the centuries. This event, co-sponsored with the Marcus W. Orr Center for the Humanities, is free and open to the public.

Tickets to the show will go on sale Monday, April 2.

The Arabian Nights

April 12-14 & 19-21 @ 7:30 pm

The University of Memphis

Department of Theatre & Dance

3745 Central Ave.

Tickets: $20 Adults, $15 Students/Senior Citizens

901.678.2576