Bright Star, inspired by real events, is a moving production that tells a powerful story of love, loss, opportunity, and ultimately, redemption. With a talented cast and dedicated production team, Bright Star promises to take audiences on an emotional rollercoaster, delivering moments of heartbreak and joy.
At the heart of Bright Star is Alice Murphy, a literary editor with a haunting past, and Jimmy Ray Dobbs, a young man whose life is forever changed by love and difficult choices. Their story unfolds across two timelines: the 1920s and 1940s gradually revealing a deeply personal and moving connection. Meanwhile, Billy Cane, a young soldier returning home after World War II, dreams of becoming a writer. He finds inspiration in his childhood friend Margo, who has long-held feelings for him. As Billy pursues his aspirations, he finds himself drawn to Alice Murphy and her publishing company, setting the stage for an unexpected and emotional revelation.
Dr. Michele Pagen, a professor of Theatre in the Department of Visual and Performing Arts at PennWest, is at the helm of this production. While she did not personally select “Bright Star,” as show selections are determined by a committee of faculty, staff, and students, she quickly grew to appreciate the depth of the story.
“Bright Star is a musical inspired by real events. It is a story about love and loss, opportunity and oppression, and rebirth and redemption,” said Pagen. “It is a complex story about tragic events that ends joyfully. It is not a show for all audiences, as there are many adult themes and upsetting actions taken by a few characters. I promise, though, you’ll be happy.”
Pagen also reflected on the cast and production process, noting how the enthusiasm of the actors became contagious. “It wasn’t until our read-through at our first rehearsal that I began to appreciate the story. The cast is thrilled to be performing this particular show, and it was infectious. I do think audiences will experience many emotions throughout the performances, it is a rollercoaster of a story,” said Pagan.
Darien O’Neal, the costume shop supervisor, shared her perspective on working on the production and the unique experience it provided.
“It’s cool to get to do different areas versus something that’s more modern all the time because I don’t often get to do a lot of historical research,” O’Neal explained. “I especially like the story a lot more with the cast that we have. I feel like they brought a lot to the characters that I didn’t see when I was reading the script.”
With period-accurate costumes and a strong cast bringing the characters to life, the production embraces the historical elements that make Bright Star unique.
Kayla Brill, a first-year theatre major with a concentration in Musical Theatre, shared her experience working on Bright Star and how it contributed to her growth in the field.
“I play Florence and a bunch of little ensemble parts, and I’m also in a lot of dance numbers,” Brill said.
She also thought that it would help with her major and future goals. “I really enjoy Bright Star, and it helps a lot because getting the experience to work with different kinds of directors and people and learning different styles of dance is really helpful for what my goals are in the future,” she said.
Brill reflected on the production, expressing her admiration for the show.
“I don’t think I could picture anything being different. I really enjoy the show, and I think everything about it is just really good in its own right,” she said.
From the stunning period-accurate costumes designed by Nikkisha Thompson to the collaborative effort of the artistic team, management, cast, and crew, Bright Star is set to be an unforgettable production and offers audiences a deeply moving experience. The production team invites the PennWest community and beyond to witness this beautifully crafted tale unfold on stage. With its heartfelt storytelling and captivating performances, Bright Star promises to leave a lasting impression on all who attend.
Bright Star will be performed from Feb. 21 – 23. For more updates and behind-the-scenes content, visit PennWest Cal Theatre on Facebook.
