TXST SoTDF presents The River Bride

San Marcos, TX – Texas State University's School of Theatre, Dance, and Film presents The River Bride, a captivating and haunting play by award-winning playwright Marisela Treviño Orta, running Feb. 27 to March 2 and March 5-7 in the PSHF Studio Theatre.

In a small fishing village in Brazil, the play follows the lives of two sisters who are forever changed when fishermen pull a mysterious man from the Amazon River. Directed by Robby Sciortino, a second-year MFA director, this production weaves myth and reality together while exploring themes of sacrifice, tradition, and the inescapable pull of destiny.

Dreaming of a life beyond the confines of their quiet fishing village, Belmira (Esmeralda Navarro Garcia) eagerly prepares for her upcoming wedding to Duarte (James Cazares). Meanwhile, her older sister, Helena (Damara Ortis), is consumed by a deep, silent dread, knowing the man she loves is about to marry her sister instead.

As the wedding day approaches, the family faces disruption when fishermen rescue an unconscious stranger, Moises (Cleofas Soto V), from the river. His opulent mien and inexplicable appearance spark events that change everything. Señora Costa (Giulia Garbani) watches with concern, torn between protecting her daughters and upholding the traditions that have long defined their lives. The stoic father, Señor Costa (Emilio Amaya), must grapple with the choices that bind his family, all while the river's mythic forces seem to close in on them.

The creative team includes Michael Gault, scenic designer; Sarah Rosenkranz, costume designer; Kate Gonzales, lighting designer; Xavier Dvorak, sound designer; Quinn Kent, technical director; Allison Berry, dramaturg; and Kierstyn Born, production stage manager.

The River Bride promises to transport audiences into a world where myth is alive, family ties run deep, and destiny always has the final say. 

TXST School of Theatre, Dance, and Film for The River Bride (Feb. 27 to March 2 and March 5-7) in the PSHF Studio Theatre. Tickets range from $10 to $15 and can be purchased online at txstatepresents.com.

Directing Advisor: Andy Park; Dramaturgy Advisor: Dr. Kevin Byrne; Fight/Intimacy Director: Tobie Minor; Stage Management Advisor: Leigh’Ann Andrews; Scenic Advisor: Michelle Ney; Costume Advisor: Jack A. Smith; Lighting Advisor: Brandon Rosen; Sound Advisor: Scott Murdock; Technical Direction Advisor: Colin Shay; Properties Advisor: Jordan Kelly Andrews; Theatre Center Scene Shop Supervisor: Edward Koehler; Paint Advisor: Courtney Winkelman; Costume Director: Monica Pasut; Cutter/Draper: Hannah Choat; Wardrobe Advisor: Monica Pasut; Box Office Manager: Robert Styers; Publicity Coordinator: Lauren Jurgemeyer; Director of Production: Lesley Fairman