A group of theater students at Dallas College, Richland Campus presented “Emilia,” a play written by Morgan Lloyd Malcolm, at the Fannin Hall auditorium Nov. 13-16., directed by Professor Emily Gray.
With a runtime of two hours and 15 minutes, divided into two acts, the play stood out not only for its message but also for the talent and creativity of the freshmen and sophomore students who brought it to life.
“Emilia” tells the story of Emilia Bassano, a poet and feminist of the 16th century who faced a world full of restrictions for women. Through her poetry and life, Emilia fought to be heard and to defend women’s rights. This production not only explores her personal life and growth but also highlights how her voice became a symbol of resistance for all silenced women in history.
Some scholars believe Emilia could have been the “Dark Lady” mentioned in Shakespeare’s sonnets, adding a layer of mystery and literary connection to her story. In the play, there is even a scene where Emilia and Shakespeare have a unique argument by singing in verse, a moment that amazes the audience with its creativity and execution.
One of the most interesting choices in this production was having the character of Emilia portrayed by three different actresses, representing various stages and facets of her life. This approach not only allowed for a deeper exploration of her growth as a woman, poet and activist but also emphasized that Emilia’s voice transcends her own story, symbolizing the struggles of countless women throughout history.
Although “Emilia” covers deep topics, it had funny moments that made the audience laugh, creating a good balance between drama and comedy.. Another mpressive element was the versatility of the cast. Many actors played two or even three characters, switching roles with remarkable skill.
One of the most emotional scenes was the birth of Emilia’s first daughter. With an impressive use of lights and music, the atmosphere shifted from tension and pain to joy and peace, creating a magical moment on stage. Another impactful scene came when, after years of derogatory comments toward women such as “Is that time of the month? Miserable cat,” and intense moments like Lady Katherine’s appearance, beaten and bloodied. The women rose up and confronted the men, proving they couldn’t be silenced.
The set design was simple but effective. Elements like brick beams, a wooden bench and a few lights transformed throughout the play into libraries, desks, chests and more. With minimal props, they managed big scene changes, supported by perfectly timed lighting.
Live music was another standout feature. The play included a cappella songs, violin and trumpet solos and group performances that filled the auditorium with energy and emotion. Each piece was performed with such talent that it left the audience shocked.
The costumes were also remarkable. Each outfit was colorful and detailed and stood out even from a distance. In the second act, most of the cast’s costumes drastically changed, reflecting the characters’ evolution and the story’s turning points.
The significance of this production was evident not only in the quality of the performance but also in the presence of judges in the audience.
This is because this production of “Emilia” qualified for national theater competitions, an achievement that shows the hard work, talent and dedication of the students and faculty involved.
“Emilia” is an experience that invites reflection on current issues like gender equality, the fight against injustice and the importance of raising our voices.
Through its story and message, the play reminds us that change begins with the courage of one person, but that courage can inspire many others.
