University French play makes a welcome return – University of Reading
04 February 2005
This February sees the much anticipated comeback of the University of Reading's French play. Erasmus students and students of French will perform the medieval French mystery 'La Pécheresse' (The Sinner). Located on the University's Whiteknights campus, the Wolfgang Van Emden Theatre is the venue for what promises to be three enthralling nights (15th-17th February) of comedy and tragedy. 'La Pécheresse' tells the story of a young girl, who, seeing her parents dying of their poverty, is tempted by Satan and decides to sell herself in order to save her mother and father. Struggling with her conscience, she sets off into the night to be confronted by an ageing madam, a kind-hearted merchant and a good-for-nothing thief. Despite the comic antics of lords, servants and executioners, tragic events follow before this tale of justice and the source of evil comes to its miraculous conclusion. This absorbing play was written sometime before 1400 (the author remains a mystery) and modernised and printed in the 16th century. It will be performed in a new modern French translation and directed by Ruth Vorstman, a finalist in French and Linguistics. "I am extremely excited at the prospect of directing 'La Pécheresse', a piece of work I am fascinated by and one guaranteed to entertain the audience," said Ruth. "Hopefully these shows will see the renaissance of the French play at the University and become a regular fixture on the University calendar once again." Dr Françoise Le Saux from the Department of French has helped with the translation and the play is produced in association with the Graduate Centre for Medieval Studies. Tickets cost £4 with a reduction to £3 for students, OAPs and members of groups of eight or more. To book tickets or for more information phone 07751 012969 or email the director: ruth@ruds.org. Tickets are also available on the door from 7pm on performance nights. Event University French Play Location Wolfgang Van Emden Theatre, Humanities and Social Sciences Buildings, Whiteknights Campus, The University of Reading Date 15th, 16th, 17th February at 7.30pm End For media enquiries only, please contact Craig Hillsley, press officer, The University of Reading Tel: 0118 378 7388 Email: c.hillsley@rdg.ac.uk