The University of Idaho’s Theater Department is presenting “Measure for Measure,” a Shakespearian dark comedy. The show is at the Hartung theater and will be running until May 7th. Students can see the show for free and tickets can be ordered at uitickets.com
“Measure for Measure” is a Shakespearian play about corruption, family disfunction and abuse of power and was performed for the first time in 1604. The story is about a nun whose brother is sentenced to death and a corrupt deputy that will trade the life of the nun’s brother for a sexual favor. Elements of this show are similar to problems addressed by the #MeToo movement and the recent overturning of Roe v. Wade. The show also includes many classic Shakespearian elements such as characters in disguises, elaborate and complex plans and over-the-top comedy.
The UI Theater Department’s rendition of the show has an interesting setting, with the set pieces and costumes set in America in 1972. Director Kate Powers has a master’s degree in Shakespearian literature and has directed many of Shakespeare’s plays. She chose the American 1970s because it reflects a period in history where the issues addressed in the play were especially prominent.
“We thought that given everything that’s happening in the country right now such as the overturning of Roe vs Wade, debates of bodily autonomy and believing women when the say they were assaulted, it seemed that setting (the show) in the summer before Roe vs Wade was passed was a good decision,” Powers said.
Emma Blonda, who plays the show’s protagonist Isabel, also commented on the setting and themes of the show.
“The fact that this show was written 400 years ago, set 50 years ago, performed today, and still has just as much impact says a lot about the problems of our society,” Blonda said. “It continues to be a conversation that needs to happen, and I am thankful to be a part of that.”
Despite the challenges that come with portraying a weighty role, Blonda is enthusiastically looking forward to it.
“It’s been very challenging, holding everything that Isabel has gone through, and honoring her journey … (it) has been an extremely interesting challenge, but I am so honored that I get to play her,” Blonda said.
With an unforgettable performance from the cast, a beautiful and fascinating setting, and a strong and meaningful message, “Measure for Measure” will make for an excellent night out at the theater. The first weekend of shows has come and gone, but students and the Moscow community can still catch a show this coming weekend. With show times at 7:30 p.m. May 5 and 6 and at 2 p.m. May 7.
Ben Dewitt can be reached at [email protected]