Latin class putting on classic comedy

Students in Professor John Gruber-Miller’s Latin 205 class are putting on a 1980’s adaptation of Plautus’ classic Roman comedy “Asinaria: The One about the Asses.”

A commentary on Roman society, this farce follows the exploits of men from varying levels of the Roman social hierarchy attempting to win the hand of a beautiful prostitute.  The prize is Philaenium, a hooker straight out of “Pretty Woman” played by Calla Holmes-Robbins and Sammy Matthews.

The first contestant for her hand is Argyrripus, the pure hearted boy next door reminiscent of Patrick Dempsey in “Can’t Buy Me Love,” played by Todd Bachman.

The second contestant is Diabolus, the scheming rival similar to the Bad Boy from the “Breakfast Club” played by Jake Jacobs.

The third contestant is Demaenetus, the lecherous father of the first contestant played by Ryan Anderson.

And the final contestants are Libanus and Leonida, the smart-aleck servants of Demaenetus reminiscent of Don Johnson from “Miami Vice” played by Andrew Bowman and Nick Loughlin, respectively.  Who will get her?  Stay tuned to find out.  Produced by John Gruber-Miller and directed by Risa Alecci and Anna Withers.

“Asinaria: The One about the Asses” will be performed on Monday, April 25 at 6 p.m. and Tuesday, April 26 at 11:45 a.m. in front of Allee Chapel.  In case of bad weather the shows will be held in Kimmel Theatre.  Admission is free and open to the public.