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September 24.2025
2 Minutes Read

Exploring Capitalism Through CSArts-SGV's Threepenny Opera: A Unique Performance

CSArts-SGV Musical Theatre Students vintage poster for 'The Threepenny Opera'

The Resurgence of 'The Threepenny Opera'

The California School of the Arts - San Gabriel Valley (CSArts-SGV) is set to present a bold rendition of Bertolt Brecht's "The Threepenny Opera" from September 26 to September 28. Through this performance, students from the Musical Theatre Conservatory will plunge into a nearly century-old narrative that critiques capitalism and the bourgeois society of its time.

A Critical Lens on Society

At the heart of the play is Macheath, a criminal gang leader planning to marry Polly Peachum, the daughter of the 'king of beggars.' Their desire for a harmonious life is disrupted by Polly's father's fears that the marriage will threaten his business as a beggar. This subplot serves as a reflection of societal corruption and greed, themes that feel even more relevant today. Brecht's work encourages audiences to recognize the theatricality of the play instead of immersing into a fictional escapade.

Embodying Epic Theatre

Producing the show presents unique challenges to the CSArts-SGV students, particularly under the direction of William Lagos. He emphasizes that Brecht’s Epic Theatre defies the conventions of realism, drawing attention to the characters as representations of larger societal contradictions rather than nuanced individuals. This approach pushes the cast out of their comfort zones, focusing on physicality and thematic ideas instead of traditional character portrayal.

Mastering the Craft

Additionally, the School's voice instructor, Mrs. Samaniego, has prepared the students through dialect training, allowing them to fully embrace the East London accents required for the performance. This instruction enhances the authenticity of the production while maintaining the complex style of Brecht's work.

Engagement and Excitement

Running through this week at the Duarte Performing Arts Center, the show promises to be an engaging and thought-provoking experience, amplified by the artistic collaboration among 21 students across various conservatories at CSArts-SGV. The theatrical depth and societal critiques presented in "The Threepenny Opera" make it a must-see event for those interested in contemporary interpretations of classic theatre.

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