California Lutheran University’s Theatre Arts Department was invited to stage its production of The Cherry Orchard at the prestigious Region VIII Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival. The Anton Chekhov play about a quirky family in early 20th-century Russia was presented at the festival in Los Angeles in February.

Only 10 productions from Southern California, Arizona, Guam, Hawaii, Nevada and Utah were invited to fully mount their shows at the festival. This is the second time a CLU Mainstage Theatre production has been selected.

The 42-year-old program is designed to encourage, recognize and celebrate the finest and most diverse work produced in university and college theater programs. CLU design students Shaun Hara, a junior, and senior Julianne Kunke were finalists in the design competion with Hara receiving an honorable mention (third place).

The CLU production was originally staged in November under the direction of theatre arts professor Michael J. Arndt. Assistant professor Nate Sinnott designed the evocative and symbolic set and the lighting that reflects the haze of time. Costume designer Val Miller, a lecturer at CLU, captured the look and feel of the period; professional composer Chris Hoag provided a haunting score and sound design; and Barbara Wegher-Thompson coached the performers on movement.