Having read the script and gained more perspective regarding the history of Fairview’s spring play “Lend Me a Tenor”, I would like to provide an update on some information mentioned in my original article.

First of all, I was wrong to have commented on the part of the director’s statement that describes Otello’s character. He is indeed a “character of African descent” considering that Verdi’s opera “Otello” was produced in 1829 and based on Shakespeare’s play “Othello”. Both were originally performed in Italy and England, respectively, at a time where the term “Black man” didn’t exist. While the phrase “of African descent” is severely outdated, it is appropriate when describing the time period in which the opera “Otello” was produced. 

A second point I would like to highlight is the fact that the poster for “Lend Me a Tenor” was updated to disclude the sexualized women in favor of a pair of opened doors (see above). I personally really like this change, considering that doors are a fundamental part of this farce and comedic aspect. They fly open, slam shut, and are a driving laugh-out-loud feature of the play. 

I would also like to address the sexual aspect of the play. After reading the script, and seeing how the play director Benji Stasny has very thoughtfully choreographed the kisses and implied sex scenes, it’s obvious that this part of the controversy was originally overstated. The choreography allows the actors to feel completely comfortable, safeguards personal boundaries, and highlights consent while also emphasizing the comedic details. It’s clear that Stasny, with the help of an Intimacy Coordinator, made extensive efforts to ensure this play is full of comedy and appropriate for mature audiences.

All that being said, Fairview has taken Ken Ludwig’s 2019 adaption of “Lend Me a Tenor” and made it into a hilarious farce that isn’t one to miss. Yes, the play has a troubling background regarding its original use of blackface and questionable intimate scenes, but Ludwig’s changes and Stasny’s application of said changes leave little room for controversy. 

Performances for “Lend Me a Tenor” are April 24-26 at 7:00! 

Buy tickets here: https://swordandstone.ludus.com