"Money, money, money/Must be funny/In the rich man's world," proclaims the trailer for Aenied Theatre Company's (ATC) production of Molière's comedy, "The Miser." This production—under the direction of Jack McCarthy— explores an old man's obsession with money, and the comedic and complicated situations it gets him into.
Founded in 2014, ATC has quickly become a recognized and respected student theatre troupe at USC. Working to "advance the ISP community here at USC," their mission is to "enrich the USC theatre community through independently producing three non-musical (straight) plays a year, one production from each of three categories: Classical, contemporary, and alternative theatre." Their previous work on productions, such as the technically challenging "When the Rain Stops Falling," and the dark and daring "Equus," has earned ATC a reputation for high quality shows, fearless experimentation, and setting new standards for independent student productions.
Their latest production, "The Miser," centers around Harpagon, a stingy, rich widower, who attempts to control the lives and loves of those around him. Sophomore Manny Spero—who will be playing the 60-year-old Harpagon— shares a bit about his experience tackling a period piece of theatre.
How do you approach a character so different from yourself?
When I first read the play aloud, I just happened upon a weird but fun character voice for Harpagon, which I ended up sticking with throughout the whole process. At first, what I saw in the text was all these ridiculous jokes and areas for potential comedic moments. But after a while, by thinking about why Harpagon acts the way he does, and what events in his life have occurred thus far, I was able to shape him into someone that isn't just a cranky, old man. Although the character is over 60, walks with a cane, and is from the 1600s, he's not too different from me. By finding those similarities in regards to what we value in life, and the care that we have for those things closest to us, allowed me to better connect to the miser himself.
What has been your favorite part about working on this production?
My favorite part from working on this production was definitely getting into the physicality of the character Harpagon, and to then throw him into these funny scenarios with the other characters in the show. It's honestly a workout playing this old man and learning to dive into a project like this was definitely a challenge, but one that is really paying off in the end.
What has this production taught you?
This production has taught me to keep making new discoveries as you go along. Keep working hard and putting 200% into what you're doing, no matter what difficulties you might run into.
"The Miser" will be playing February 2nd-5th in the Massman Theatre. There is a suggested $5 donation at the door. For updates on tickets and shows, visit www.aeneidusc.com
Contact Staff Reporter Julia Stier here
Annenberg Media