The theater season is in full swing at Concordia, with the Theatre Department preparing their upcoming fall musical “She Loves Me,” directed by Susanna Vaughan, written by Joe Masteroff, with lyrics by Sheldon Harnick and music by Jerry Bock. 

An adaptation of the 1937 play “Parfumerie” by Miklós László, “She Loves Me” is set in a 1934 perfumery in Budapest and follows a well-loved romantic plot that many are sure to recognize from the film “You've Got Mail” by Nora Ephron. The story focuses on the character of Georg Nowack—the perfumery’s timid assistant manager, his banter with his new coworker Amalia Balash, and the anonymous pen pals they have been exchanging romantic letters with who might not be so anonymous after all.

In an age where instant gratification is expected of every form of entertainment, “She Loves Me” provides a refreshing break from busy life. “We are currently living in a time where we run our nervous systems rampant with social media, misinformation and a heavy curriculum for us students,” said Bradley Weaver ‘26, who plays the character of the sales clerk Steven Kodaly. 

“This show is an opportunity to disengage with the unnecessary noise in our society,” Weaver continued. The production is the perfect opportunity to focus on something more lighthearted and relaxed, and enjoy the antics that ensue with miscommunication between characters. “I would love for the audience to sit back for a couple hours and enjoy a laugh… or many,” Weaver said.

The production also features subplots of important growth and change for supporting characters, such as Ilona Ritter, an alluring store clerk, and Mr. Maracheck, the owner of the perfumery. “Each character grows substantially as a person, whether it be Illona, learning to value herself more as a woman and raising her standards of men,” said Camile Beeson ‘26, “or Mr. Maracheck finding joy in discipling a younger friend, all are better people by the end of the show.” Beeson plays the role of the waiter at the Cafe Imperiale, whose role is to maintain a curated romantic atmosphere for Amalia while she waits to meet her anonymous pen pal.

Not only does “She Loves Me” provide learning experiences for the characters within it, but it gives chances to the cast to grow as people as well. The Theatre Department values education, which is why Weaver thoroughly enjoys participating in productions at Concordia. “The students, staff and faculty do such a fantastic job at creating an atmosphere that feels professional, but still educational,” said Weaver. 

The department also understands the importance of community in an environment that can be as competitive as musical theater. “I love the community that seeks to tell stories that are greater than ourselves.” said Beeson. “We are not in competition, but we are on a team, seeking to tell the best story possible.” At the end of the day, Beeson is “most excited for audiences to relax and enjoy a good rom-com.”

“She Loves Me” is set to premiere at the Studio Theatre on Nov. 15 at 7:30 p.m., with additional performances on Nov. 16, 22, and 23 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 17 and 23 at 2 p.m. Tickets can be reserved in advance online, and Concordia students get one ticket for free by using the code CUISTU at checkout.

 Tickets are available for sale at the door, but it is recommended to purchase ahead of time as it is common for shows to sell out. To purchase tickets or learn more information, please visit cui.simpletix.com.

Tags: Theatre

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