Saginaw Valley State University’s production of “What the Constitution Means to Me”, a show that aims to get its audience thinking beyond the stage, is now in rehearsal.
Written by Heidi Schreck, the play explores the Constitution through the experiences of four generations of women. Schreck also draws from her own experience as a teenager competing in Constitutional debate competitions across the United States.
At SVSU, the production is being directed by Tommy Wedge, associate professor of theatre. The cast includes Ella Koenigsknecht as Heidi, Jaiden Gardner as the Legionnaire and Lexy Andres as the Debater.
Koenigsknecht, a secondary education major with a minor in theatre, said she was drawn to the way her character approaches difficult subjects.
“I love the way that Heidi can make light of such heavy subjects,” she mentioned. “She is able to explain complicated matters in a way that anyone can understand. This story as a whole is so layered, and I love uncovering the truth behind each word.”
Andres, a second-year environmental science and mathematics major, said her role will give the audience a chance to participate in the production through a debate at the end of the show.
“I am playing the debater and my role in the production is to participate in a debate at the end of the night to discuss whether or not we should abolish the United States Constitution,” Andres said. “It is a way for people to get involved in the show and get them thinking about the Constitution more deeply.”
Andres said her interest in speech and debate was one of the reasons she wanted to be part of the production in the first place.
“I love speech and debate and I love being a part of discussions that make people think deeply about important issues,” she said.
Although rehearsals began in August for many of the cast members, Andres began attending rehearsals Monday, Sept. 14. She said the rehearsal process will include blocking as well as discussions about which choices could have the greatest impact on the show.
Andres also stated that she is looking forward to collaborating with the other actors and participating in an onstage debate with Koenigsknecht, who plays Heidi.
Andres hopes the role can spark individuals who are watching the play the ability to use their voices to create change.
“I think this role is important because the debater to me represents the common person who may not be in positions of power but still have the power to use their voice to advocate for change,” she said.
Koenigsknecht said she hopes audiences leave the production thinking more deeply about the Constitution and the society they live in.
“This show is something that everyone should see. Facts are presented that explain why our country works the way that it does,” she said. “It dives deep into our society and poses questions to make you think about what you agree and disagree with.”
Multiple shows of “What the Constitution Means to Me” will be held at the Malcolm Field Theatre for Performing Arts Wednesday, Sept. 30 through Saturday, Oct. 3, at 7:30 p.m., with another performance taking place Sunday, Oct. 4, at 3 p.m. Students can receive free tickets, while tickets for the general public are $15.
