USD Theatre Livestreams Heartwarming and Hilarious Musical Fairy Tale
“Zanna, Don’t!” is set in a parallel universe where homosexuality is the norm and heterosexuality is a no go. This magical extravaganza follows a group of friends in Heartsville, USA as they decide to put on a controversial drama club production to challenge the status quo. When things go awry, Zanna, the local matchmaker, calls on the power of love to keep his friends safe.
“Zanna, Don’t!” is directed by third-year M.F.A. candidate Oliver Mayes and serves as his thesis production. "Leading this production has been fulfilling in many ways. I have the honor of building a dynamic parallel universe on stage through collaboration with an incredible artistic team and cast of actors,” Mayes said. “Together, we also have the opportunity to teach our audiences about empathy, while bringing joy and laughter to their lives, all from the comfort of their homes."
Rehearsed and performed under COVID-19 protocols, the creative team and cast have risen to the challenge to present a fully realized and unique piece of theatre.
“Despite the complex conditions around preparing ‘Zanna Don’t!’ for performance, we’ve managed to foster a safe work environment that encourages us to play in the world we created,” said Joshua Young, a freshman B.F.A. musical theatre major who takes on the role of the magical Zanna. “Every time I walk into rehearsal, I know I’m going to discover something new about me or my character or my cast mates.”
Senior B.F.A. musical theatre major Shelby Gibbins is elated about the opportunities that this show has provided. “I was fortunate to have served in the role as dance captain, as well as being in the ensemble. It is an honor that I was given such a great opportunity at an undergraduate level,” Gibbins said.
Junior B.F.A. design/tech major Brittney Lewis takes on the roles of costume, make-up and hair designer. “While working on ‘Zanna Don't!,’ I have seen so much passion from the students involved in the show and that is evident in every aspect of this show,” said Lewis. “I had the absolute pleasure of working with an incredibly fun, collaborative, loving, and student-driven team! Come experience the love.”
Filled with sequins, musical bops and a mechanical bull, audiences don't want to miss “Zanna, Don't!” Check out USD Theatre on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for interviews and photos.
“Zanna, Don’t!” streams for free March 4-6 at 7:30 p.m. and March 7 at 2 p.m. at www.usd.edu/theatre/live, captioned and un-captioned options will be available.
