Galileo -- CT Repertory Theater (UCONN)

Archive Review--

Puppets and masks highlight Connecticut Repertory Theatre’s presentation of Bertolt Brecht’s Galileo, running through Dec 12 in the Harriet S. Jorgensen Theatre on the Storrs campus. The cartoonish treatment of some of the characters questioning Galileo’s theories lightens up the otherwise dry two hours and 45 minutes about the scientist whose discovery that the earth rotates around the sun set off years of battle between science and the church and resulted in his appearing before the Inquisition. Also providing some pizzazz to the production are very cool video projections onto a backdrop that make you feel like you’re in a planetarium. Dudley Knight, a founding member of New Haven’s Long Wharf Theatre and professor emeritus at the University of California’s School of Drama, gives a solid performance as Galileo. Rounding out the cast are Bonnie Black as Mrs. Sarti and Kurt Zischke as Cardinal Barberini/Pope Urban VIII. The dramatic team includes Gary English, Director, Rachel Levy, Scenic Designer; David Smith, Lighting Designer; Marti Simmons, Costume Designer, Ed Weingart, Sound Design; Joe Therrien, Puppet Designer; and Dassia Posner, Dramaturg. Evening performances are 7:30 pm Wednesdays and Thursdays and 8 pm Fridays and Saturdays. Matinee performances also are scheduled. Ticket prices range from $11- $29.For tickets and information, call 860-486-4226 or visit www.crt.uconn.edu.