The Rover

by Aphra Behn
Adapted by Josh Costello
Directed by Josh Costello

Awards and Recognition

  • World Premiere Adaptation

Reviewer Quotes

“ Inventive and pleasurable, showcasing Behn's sharp wit and Costello's inspired imagination. ”

Back Stage

Hellena, the young heroine of The Rover, uses her imagination to escape not just her situation, but also the gender roles imposed on her by a patriarchal society.  Aphra Behn did this in real life through her writing. Hellena does it in the play by dressing up in carnival costumes and by disguising herself as a boy.  To take this idea a step further, this adaptation has Hellena and all the other characters played by present-day teenage girls play-acting together in their bedroom during a sleepover.  By acting out the story – playing women and men, imagining what it’s like to be in love, to be an adult, to deal with violence and forgiveness and loss – the girls escape their own preconceptions and limitations, and discover for themselves what love is all about.

Creative Team
  • Playwright : Aphra Behn
  • Director : Josh Costello
  • Dramaturg : Jocelyn A. Brown
  • Set Designer : Jeremy Golden
  • Lighting Designer : Masako Tobaru
  • Stage Manager/Sound Designer : Dimas Diaz
  • Costume Designer : Emily Sanford
  • Fight Director : Christopher Villa
Performers
  • Alex Bueno
  • Emily Clark
  • Vanessa Martinez
  • Barbara Suiter
Awards
  • OC Weekly Theater Award Nominee: Best Direction (Josh Costello)
  • OC Weekly Theater Award Nominee: Best Ensemble

Articles & Reviews

Reviews coming soon!

Audience Buzz

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Venue Bette Aitken theater arts Center

Bette Aitken theater arts Center
5522 E. La Palma Ave.
Anaheim, CA  92807
More Information Get Directions
Venue Amenities
  • Full-Service Bar
  • Free Parking
  • Conveniently Located

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