Arts House performs powerful new drama

Arts House Theater Company presented its debut of Death and the Maiden last night in the Rathskeller of High Rise East. The three person show tells the story of a husband and wife living in present-day Chile where a democratic government has arisen after a long period of dictatorship. The play, which deals with human rights issues, marks the first time in the University's theatrical history in which the drama group has teamed up with the University's chapter of Amnesty in sponsoring the production. During intermission petitions were available for students to sign. Although the show involves only three actors, they demonstrated excellent understanding of the plight of their characters. The play centers around Paulina Salas, played by College sophomore Suzanne Levinson. Paulina, who was an abused prisoner of the former Chilean dictatorship, must come to grips with her past when her husband Gerardo, played by College senior George Anastasiou, is appointed to a commission to investigate the human rights violations. Twists in the plot bring Roberto Miranda, College junior Danny Silverstein, to the Salas home. Paulina believes Miranda is a doctor who had supervised her torture when she was in captivity years ago. As the drama ensues, the actors deal with many issues of loyalty, love, sanity and brutality. All three talented actors make their roles and hardships more than believable. Producer and College senior Richard Leit, said while he hopes the audience can appreciate the entertainment factor of the show, he also hopes they leave a little more enlightened. "We hope the show will be an excellent piece of drama but also raise the social consciousness of Penn students," Leit said. "By bringing the issues in this play to light, we hope that people will be inspired to take action." Sumeet Goel, director and Wharton senior, said he hopes the presence of Amnesty International at the performances will increase students awareness that these acts are not just in the past. "There are many violations that often go unnoticed because of other political agendas," he said. The show will be running tonight and tomorrow night, the 17, 18 and 19th. All shows are at 8 p.m. and in the High Rise East Rathskeller.