Have you ever wondered what would happen if Joan of Arc existed today? This concept is brought to life in Ryan Cambell’s play, “A New Saint for a New World.”
The Department of Theatre Arts and Dance presented this work as a scripted reading on Saturday, April 6, in the Lower Depths Theater.
In Cambell’s story, God provides Joan of Arc with an unusual opportunity: a second chance at life in the physical world. The only condition for this offer is that she refrain from inciting any further revolts. Joan finds it difficult to complete this seemingly simple request.
“A New Saint for a New World” is part of the Department of Theatre Arts and Dance’s Lower Depths series. This collection also includes other new works, such as Jenny Rachel’s “Horse Girls.”
The Lower Depths series aims to introduce students to new and innovative theatrical works. It also gives students a platform to demonstrate their talents and develop as performers.
Helen Jakcsh, a professor of practice in theater arts, highlights the value of this hands-on experience for theater students. “It’s important to me that theater students have the opportunity to perform the work,” she says. “There’s a role for everyone at Loyola. If you’re hungry and want to perform, design, or stage manage, we have it here.”
CGesange • Apr 13, 2024 at 2:00 am
The historical Joan of Arc wasn’t “leading a revolt” in the first place: she supported Charles VII’s existing bid to gain the throne by saying that God supported him as the legal claimant. She didn’t invent his claim or his cause since the inheritance dispute went back to the time of Edward III in the early 14th century (that’s why the conflict is called “The Hundred Years War”).