Wiggers plug feminism

Myth America is not notable for its beautiful women. But the men of Mask and Wig addressed the "political correctness" debate humorously and with originality in their show, Myth America: The Lies and Times of Christopher Columbus, which opened Friday at the Mask and Wig Clubhouse. In the past, some people have found the all-male theater company's treatment of women derogatory, but the present show parodies Hollywood women while providing a soap box for airing the thoughts of modern feminists. The show's writers, Mask and Wig Undergraduate Chairman Al Bingham, a College senior, and College junior Christian Fletcher, framed the "P.C." argument within the story of Christopher Columbus sailing to the new world. While the production's co-writers said they hoped to present a middle ground resolution of the views of white male chauvinism, portrayed by the show's narrator, as well as extreme feminism, represented by the character of Libby. Instead, however, the feminist argument prevails as a voice of reason and Columbus falls short of reaching middle ground making the storyline even more interesting. In his final song, which is extremely comical, he whines, "I didn't ask for a three day weekend. . . I'm just a man." "It's the first time I've seen them plug women's rights," said Danette Fisher, audience member of 20 years and College of Women 1977 alumna. The script never deviates from hilarity and creativity. A scene showing the inability of Columbus and his crew to communicate with the natives that they encountered in America was especially funny. Audience members and Mask and Wig alumni said the entire production was the best in years, which many present and past Wiggers attributed to the dedication of their director, Charles Seymour, a Wharton 1975 alumnus who has directed many Delaware Valley productions. The cast was amazingly full of energy. College sophomore Dan Bisbee's astounding acting and singing made Columbus the most memorable character in a cast of extremely talented preformers. Most notable was his performance of the challenging song Patter in the Courts. College sophomores Gabriel Ledger as Easy Money and Michael Shames as Libby, were extremely convincing as women, from their facial expressions to their walk. College freshman Brian Yanish was an accomplished addition as a mime. Although songs were occasionally rough, the extremely polished dance numbers, acting and scenery more than made up for it. The dances were well coordinated and imaginative. The tap number was nothing less than professional. The costumes were exquisitely detailed. It seemed no expense was spared to outfit the performers perfectly for their parts. The Mask and Wig Clubhouse, which has helped make Mask and Wig as much of a University tradition as throwing toast at a football game, greatly added to the ambience of the evening. Student tickets are $8 for performances at the clubhouse and $6 for performances at Annenberg School Theater. The show runs Thursdays through Saturdays through March 28.

Please note All comments are eligible for publication in The Daily Pennsylvanian.