‘Becket’ Is at RUHS March 14

The intrigue, passion, and shifting allegiances of Jean Anouilh’s "Becket" take to the stage at Randolph Union March 14.

This ambitious one-act play, Randolph’s entry in the Vermont State Drama Festival, has presented meaningful challenges and opportunities to the troupe’s young actors and technicians.

"Becket is a rich, engaging work that explores increasingly complex relationships," said director Brian C. Rainville. "It’s a very challenging script, a real monster to produce.

"There are 10 scenes, nearly all the costuming is custom work, and for the first time in years we’re not on our own stage at the festival."

Leading the cast is sophomore Casey Bonoyer, as the ambitious young English monarch who names his friend, Thomas Becket (senior Micah Battino), to a series of increasingly important and independent positions.

Nikki White portrays the king’s mother, and Lauren Soares, his wife. Muriel Garner stands in opposition to Becket as the Bishop of London, and Katie Yawney portrays her mentor.

Melissa Perkins is Becket’s love interest and the source of separation between him and the king. Kim Francis is the queen of France and senior Shauna Davis heads up the English barons.

Lighting design is by Nicole Tucker, who took on this production as her senior project, with the able assistance of Nate Soares and Anthony Fiorillo..

Costume design and construction is under the supervision of drama mama Larae Francis and senior Liz Lawrence.

Director Rainville adapted Anouilh’s three-act play into a once-act version for this production. Becket will be performed at Rutland High School March 24.