March 27, 2001

HARDSHIP OF PIONEERING DAYS COMES TO VITERBO IN O PIONEERS

LA CROSSE, Wis.— The Viterbo University La Croix Black Box Theatre is saddling up for its next play, O Pioneers, April 5-9.

Darrah Cloud’s adaptation of Willa Cather’s classic novel O Pioneers frames the story of Alexandra Bergson, a young Swedish immigrant on the Nebraska plains, with music. Thrust into taking responsibility for her family after the death of her father, Alexandra displays a powerful spirit and strong determination, qualities that sustain her and also bring her great pain.

"The script, which explores the American immigrant experience and the restrictions women of the times faced, is written to be performed with a minimalist set; only a few basic props are used so the audience must see Nebraska through their mind’s eye. The La Croix Black Box Theatre is a perfect space for this," said Janet McLean, director.

All performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $9. For more information call the Viterbo University Box Office at 608-796-3100.