The New World School of the Arts college theatre students will present Tom Stoppard’s The Real Thing, showcasing the playwright at his finest. Under the direction of faculty James S. Randolph, an eight-member cast will explore the emotional depth of one of Stoppard’s most poignant works, revealing authentic struggles through the characters’ experiences. Randolph emphasized the play’s exploration of love and loss, stating that while some characters find love, others face its absence, all grappling with the challenges of existence.
The narrative centers on Henry, who is married to Charlotte, and Annie, who is married to Max, yet it is Henry and Annie who discover a profound connection. The Real Thing intricately weaves themes of love, infidelity, and the narratives we construct, navigating the complex interplay between reality and illusion.
Amanda Cardentey, a junior in the college acting track, expressed that her role significantly contributes to her development as an actor by requiring her to fully engage with a distinct and diverse culture. She has had to familiarize herself with various elements such as behaviors, lifestyles, fashion, and religious practices associated with this culture. This experience also equips her to embody different archetypes and navigate the considerable age differences required in her role.
A senior in acting, Rowan Elizabeth notes, “The Real Thing also expands our ability to see outside our own American culture. We must step into a mindset that is older, more restrained, and more polite at times than our own. Different humor, different politics. This causes us to push our artistic abilities further than they have gone before.”
Acting and musical theatre students at NWSA hone their craft through acting technique, movement, and speech classes, focusing on fundamentals of physical and emotional preparation. With performance at its core, training is based on the classical texts and the principles of drama as well as practical incursions into the contemporary and experimental edges of theatre. Consequently, alumni are found performing onstage nationally and internationally and their talent and vision are recognized and highly regarded in the industry. Information about the NWSA theater division at 305-237-3260. 2025-2026 Theatre Season Scheduled Events.
A Florida center of excellence in the visual and performing arts, New World School of the Arts is an educational partnership of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Miami Dade College, and University of Florida. NWSA provides a comprehensive program of artistic, creative, and academic development through a curriculum that reflects our community and the rich multicultural state of Florida. Through our partners NWSA confers the high school diploma, Associate of Arts degree, and Bachelor of Fine Arts and Bachelor of Music degrees in programs accredited by the National Association of Schools of Dance, Music, Theater and Art & Design. NWSA’s rigorous eight-year curriculum and conservatory-style teaching has empowered students in our community and our nation to become leaders in the arts for more three decades. Information about New World School of the Arts at 305-237-3135 or nwsa.mdc.edu.
THE REAL THING
October 16, 17; 7:30 PM
October 18; 2:00 PM
& 7:30 PM
New World School of the Arts
25 NE 2 Street, Room 5903, Miami
Free and open to the public with registration