Greta Stockwell plays the resolute heroine, while Danny Stockwell is the man she loves and Calder Johnson is the ruthless businessman who comes between them in the Broadway hit, Her Own Way. Other characters in the cast of 15 are portrayed by HSU Theatre, Film & Dance department faculty and staff, plus special guests (including young Glenys Stockwell).
Just seven months after Humboldt State Normal School began classes in 1914, Her Own Way was produced with a student cast at the brand new Minor Theatre in Arcata. This event is described in an HSU theatre arts history compiled in the 1980s.
“When I read that and saw the first play was in 1914,” said current faculty member Derek Lane, “ I thought, wouldn’t it be wonderful to re-stage it in 2014.”
Lane, who is coordinating the event with faculty member Susan Abbey, notes that this will not be a full production as in 1914, though there will be some costumes and scenery. “We’re doing it on stage but as a radio show, complete with period commercials and jingles.”
Her Own Way is by Clyde Fitch, one of the most successful playwrights of early Broadway. “He was known for writing strong central roles for women,” Lane said. “Georgiana, the heroine in this play, exhibits great independence and integrity.”
Set in a well-to-do New York City household, the play involves subjects that are still relevant, such as stock market speculation and a controversial war—as well as the troubled course of true love.
Though it was a Broadway hit in 1903, today’s audiences might appreciate a shorter version, Lane suggested. “We’re aiming for about 90 minutes, with intermission. We want this to be a celebration of theatre at HSU. It’s Homecoming & Family Weekend, so we want to include alumni and former members of our department, as well as current faculty and staff and their families.”
Both Friday and Saturday’s radio-style dramatizations will be live-streamed on the Internet at https://r3dux.com/live.
Her Own Way is performed on Friday, Oct. 3 at 7:30 p.m., with reception to follow, and Saturday, Oct. 4 at 2 p.m. in the Van Duzer Theatre. Tickets are $5, students admitted free, and can be obtained from the HSU Ticket Office (826-3928) or at the door. More information online: http://HSUStage.blogspot.com.