Syracuse Sun

The Syracuse University Department of Drama concluded its 2023-24 season with the play "The Droll (Or, a Stage-Play about the END of Theatre)" by Meg Miroshnik. Directed by Celia Madeoy, the performances took place at the Storch Theatre in the Syracuse Stage/SU Drama Complex from April 19-28.

Madeoy, expressing her enthusiasm for the production, stated, "Meg Miroshnik is an exciting young American playwright, and this is only the second fully-staged production of this inventive play that imagines a place and time without theatre." She added, "It has everything: danger, deception, revolt, romance, comedy, cosplay, poetry, punk rock, fights, songs, and spectacle. I’m thrilled for Syracuse audiences to experience it."

Inspired by the 17th-century theatre closures of Puritan England, "The Droll" is a daring and darkly funny play that celebrates the collective storytelling experience. The narrative follows Nim Dullyn, a 12-year-old who becomes captivated by the magic of the stage and joins an illegal theatre troupe, facing opposition from the Roundheads, a group that views theatre as an abomination.

The production featured a talented cast and crew, including scenic design by Alexis Wilner, costume design by Sofia Pizer, and music composition by Eleni Stavros. The play delves into themes of danger, revolt, and the power of storytelling, offering audiences a unique and engaging theatrical experience.

Overall, "The Droll (Or, a Stage-Play about the END of Theatre)" provided Syracuse audiences with a thought-provoking and entertaining conclusion to the Department of Drama's season.