Heather Crabtree
Albany Democrat-Herald

CORVALLIS — The Santiam Christian High School Players will present their production of "She Stoops to Conquer," a play by Oliver Goldsmith, at 7 tonight, Friday and Saturday at the Majestic Theater.

The comical play, set in 1790 in England, follows Charles Marlow, a fine, well-traveled gentleman who is extremely shy and reticent toward ladies of his own class. However, he is bold when it comes to woman of the working class.

Marlow meets Kate Hardcastle, who he mistakes as a bar maid, when she is actually an upper-class lady and daughter of Richard Hardcastle, owner of a large, country estate.

Marlow and his friend, George Hastings, arrive at the Hardcastle home after Tony Lumpkin, Mrs. Dorothy Hardcastle's son from a previous husband, tricks the pair into believing that the home is actually an inn.

Through several cases of mistaken identity and a couple plotting to elope, Goldsmith's play comes to life.

Director Rolf McEwen edited the script to define some of the 18th-century terms into modern English.

"The play reveals aspects of human nature and realistic aspects of human virtue and weakness," McEwen said. "So, we are presenting a play that also has intellectual value as well as entertainment."

The Santiam Players are Matt Bittner as Charles Marlow; Britni Steiling as Kate Hardcastle; Daniel Giggy as Richard Hardcastle; Ali Duever as Mrs. Dorothy Hardcastle; Daniel Cathcart as George Hastings; Keith Abrams as Tony Lumpkin; Amy Hood as Constance Neville; Brian Harvey as Sir Charles Marlow; Anna Braunworth as Rosie; Erinn Streckfuss as Teresa; Jackson Mickelson as Samuel; Danile Trask and Jeremy; Nicole Baggett as Nancy, and Katy Yock as the Landlady of the Alehouse.

The stage manager is Jackson Michelson. Costume design is by Amber Stewart and make-up is by Rachelle Kazemier.

If you go

WHAT: "She Stoops to Conquer," a play by Oliver Goldsmith.

WHERE: Majestic Theater, 115 S.W. Second St., Corvallis.

WHEN: 7 p.m. today, Friday and Saturday.

COST: $8, adults; $6, students and seniors. Tickets available at Rice's Pharmacy in Corvallis or the Santiam Christian WHAT: "She Stoops to Conquer," a play by Oliver Goldsmith.