Mass ~ by Leonard Bernstein

A Theatre Piece for Singers, Players, and Dancers

Eisenhower Auditorium, Pennsylvania State University College of Arts & Architecture 50th Anniversary Celebration ~ School of Theatre/Opera Theatre 2013

Creative Team

Directed by Ted Christopher & Matt Toronto
Spence Ford ~ Choreographer
Brie Vicek ~ Scenic Designer
Lindsey Eastman, Sara Tomaszewski & Tess Mattraw~ Costume Designers
Becky Heisler ~ Lighting Designer

Performance in action

Gerardo Edelstein ~ Music Director

Video and Audio Production Courtesy of Eric Rouse & the Penn State School of Theatre

Music by Leonard Bernstein

Concept

The concept for this show was to bring a sense of modernity to a classic piece while confronting the audience with the cacophony of conflict and political/religious turmoil of the 21st Century. Over the course of a year, this show was designed, evolved and finally found its home onstage with over 300 performers at the base of the tree of life. The tree was fully automated to break apart as "Things Get Broken."

Bernstein's Mass, Tree Elevation

Production Shots

Automation in action

Tech on the shattering tree window (view from behind). Video courtesy of Eric Rouse (Technical Director).

Process and Detail Shots

Paperwork and Drafting