"Sensual French Tales of Temptation and Suspense," two vignettes of love, war and madness by the 19th century short story master, Guy de Maupassant, will be presented in a live radio drama at Fairfield University's Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts, Saturday, Feb. 16 at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. The two tales-among 300 written by the prolific French writer-were translated and adapted especially for this production by Bob Adrian of New York City, who also plays several roles in the production. They are: "Une Aventure Parisienne" (translated, "A Parisian Adventure") and "Boule de Suif" (translated, "Butter Ball" or "Ball of Fat").
"Une Aventure Parisienne" is the story of a provincial French housewife who dares to live out her fantasies. "Boule de Suif," set during the Franco-Prussian War, tells the story of a well-known prostitute, nicknamed "Boule de Suif," whose selfless actions save a group of captive bourgeoisie. Some consider it de Maupassant's masterpiece-no small distinction, given that during the 1880s, he authored 300 short stories, six novels, three travel books and one volume of verse. De Maupassant counted Henry James, Gustave Flaubert and Émile Zola among his literary circle.
"Sensual French Tales" is directed by Brett Somers of Westport, with music provided by Daniel Smith of New Haven and sound effects by Ted Powell of Stratford. Featured in the cast are: Wendy Long and Cindy B. Haynes of Fairfield; Nancy Elyze Brier of Westport; Josiah P. Rowe of Chesire; Damien Langan of Bridgeport; Nadine Willig of Wilton and Chilton Ryan of Weston.
"Sensual Tales," the second in a series of three live radio dramas, is also part of the Quick Center's "French Showcase: Evolving Arts," a celebration of French contributions to the arts and letters running through late April. Tickets are $10 and a post-show "Art to Heart" discussion with the company will follow the production. For tickets or more information, call the box office at (203) 254-4010 or 1-877-ARTS-396.
Posted On: 02-25-2002 09:02 AM
Volume: 34 Number: 149