The Drake University Department of Theatre Arts will present the Irish musical “A Man of No Importance” beginning Thursday, April 30, in the Studio 55 Theatre of the Harmon Fine Arts Center, 2505 Carpenter Ave. The show features music by Stephen Flaherty, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and a book by Terrence McNally, and is based on the 1994 film of the same name starring Albert Finney. Performances will start at 7:30 p.m. April 30-May 2 and 2 p.m. Sunday, May 3.
A beautifully woven story of love, friendship and acceptance, “A Man of No Importance” is sure to move and inspire audiences. It is the story of Alfie Byrne, a bus driver and amateur theatre director in 1964 Dublin whose heart holds feelings he can’t share with anyone but his imaginary confidante, Oscar Wilde.
He attempts to put on an amateur production of Wilde’s “Salome” in the local church hall, but is confronted with the forces of bigotry and shame over love “that dare not speak its name.”
“Even though the story takes place in the 60’s it still holds a great deal of relevance in today’s society, said Andrew Nyberg, a senior musical theatre major playing the role of Alfie. “There are still so many stigmas that exist about the “rights” and “wrongs” of love and this show does a great job of putting those down and portraying love as the unique, individual, and all around good thing that it is.”
Director Karla Kash, associate professor of theatre, is looking forward to presenting a show with such a unique and positive message. “The message this show delivers is my favorite thing about this show, not to mention the beautiful Irish music,” said Kash, who hopes audience will leave feeling inspired to be more accepting others’ differences.
Admission is $6 for adults and $4 for students and senior citizens. Tickets are available at the Fine Arts Center Box Office. Reservations, which are recommended, may be made in person or by calling 515-271-3841.