‘Rashomon’ Opening At Gu’s Russell Theatre

“Rashomon,” a two-act drama inspired by the same stories that inspired the famous 1950 Akira Kurosawa film, opens tonight at the Russell Theatre at Gonzaga University.

The story takes place in the age of the samurai in 12th-century Japan. A rape and murder has taken place, and the story is told from the viewpoints of several different people. From each perspective, the “truth” is different.

The stage version was written by playwrights Fay and Michael Kanin.

Director Sara Edlin-Marlowe will present the play in the round, on a circular stage. She is using a variety of Asian theater techniques, including a “koken” - an “invisible” actor who assists on stage with costumes and props.

The student cast also has been trained in t’ai chi ch’uan, which Edlin-Marlowe calls “a meditation in movement.”

The show opens tonight and continues Friday and Saturday and Oct. 17-20. All shows are at 8 p.m., except for the Oct. 20 matinee at 2 p.m. Tickets are $7 general admission, $3.50 for students and seniors. Call 328-4220, ext. 3105 for more information.

‘Faces of America’

A one-woman show performed by Fran de Leon, “Faces of America,” will be performed Wednesday at Spokane Falls Community College.

De Leon plays nine different characters, each with a different heritage. The Los Angeles Times said “Faces of America” is an inspiring and poignant production that encourages discussion and education about multiculturalism.

The show is produced by Will & Company, the resident theater ensemble at the Los Angeles Theatre Center, and is sponsored by the international and multicultural clubs at Spokane Falls Community College.

It runs from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Student Union Building, Lounges A and B, at 3410 W. Fort George Wright Drive. The show is free and open to the public.

, DataTimes