Cloud 9 by Caryl Churchill

This time-shifting comedy challenges and parodies the rigid attitudes and social codes of the Victorian era. With a cadre of intriguing and deceptive characters, the play is a non-stop round robin of liaisons and duplicity. Act I begins in British colonial Africa during the Victorian era in 1880 and Act II continues the story only 25 years later, but is set in 1980’s London. Come along as these characters decide whether to toe the line, cross it, or obliterate it all together.

This production features School of Theatre students Alec Ruiz (Clive/Cathy), Shane Howell (Betty/Edward), Max Bowen (Joshua/Gerry), Erin McNellis (Edward/Betty), Kariana Sanchez (Maud/Victoria), Macy Lanceta (Ellen/Lin), Jae Coutrier (Mrs.Saunders/Soldier), and Derek Grose (Harry/Martin). Cloud 9 features Direction by MFA Directing candidate Sarah Lucas, scenic design by FSU Alum Krista Franco (MFA Scenic Design), costume design by MFA Costume Design candidate Mollie LaTorre, and lighting design by guest artist Genny Wynn.

Sarah Lucas shared what she thinks audiences can expect from this production saying, “Cloud 9 has a lot to offer audiences; intelligent dialogue, sharp humor, compelling relationships, a strong message, and a unique conceptual style. However and perhaps even more importantly, it offers an opportunity for reflection and discussion. The gender and sexuality issues that this script explored in the late 1970’s are as pervasive and salient as ever. By breaking down the barriers of traditional theatre and reflecting on the mistakes of our cultural past, Cloud 9 offers not a solution for oppression, but rather hope for a world where we are not defined by who we love or how we look.”

Cloud 9, written by Caryl Churchill, made its Off-Broadway debut at the Lucille Lortel Theatre on May 18, 1981 and ran for 971 performances until it closed on September 4, 1983. This production was directed by 10 time Tony Award® winner Tommy Tune and featured music composed by two time Tony Award® winner Maury Yeston. In 2015, The Atlantic Theatre Company presented a limited, Off-Broadway run that was directed by James MacDonald.

Don’t miss The School of Theatre’s production of Cloud 9 playing at The Lab Theatre at Florida State University November 4-13. For additional media, information, or interview opportunities, contact: Michael Stone – (850) 644-6488 or mes15k@my.fsu.edu

Recommended age: 18+; Contains material that may be inappropriate for audiences under the age of 18.

Photos by Ronnie Stripling at Ronniep0p