The story of “The Giver” is seen through the eyes of Jonas, as he takes on training with the current Giver, played by Geoffrey Howard, and prepares to become the new Receiver of Memories. As part of his training, Jonas receives a succession of memories that generate an elation of feeling by seeing the world in color and feeling emotion – which are completely new to his life experiences. But on the flip side, he has to also experience the horrific memories like death, loss and warfare.
Michael Ducayne, who portrays the protagonist Jonas in the Auburn Players upcoming production, is excited to be involved because he has always loved futuristic books and movies like Divergent and The Hunger Games.
When asked about how he connects with the character, he said, “Jonas is like me in the sense of ‘curiosity.’ Jonas and I look into more than what we see. Many people show only what they want people to see on the “outside” but Jonas and I have the ability to look deeper than that.” Michael said he is similar to Jonas in that “Jonas is not afraid to face new things head on. I also like that he has morals. He does not stand with the crowd when things are wrong. He goes against the grain and is willing to lose all of his securities in the society in order to save himself and the child, Gabe.”
Michael added that the most challenging parts of this role is making the audience understand what Jonas is going through and feeling. “Jonas has never felt love, sadness or pain. I have to convince the audience that these are the first times that I (Jonas) have ever felt any of these emotions.” He continues, “The audience is going to be surprised in many parts of this play. The society seems to run with ease. There appears to be NO problems but as the Truth comes out everyday “horrors” are uncovered.”
Come to the Bisgrove Theater at Cayuga Community College on February 11th, 12th, 13th at 8p.m or go on the 14th at 2p.m and view Michael Ducayne’s portrayal of Jonas in The Giver.
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