International Cultures in Theater is Topic of The Masters Series

The spring term of The Masters Series at the Pasadena Senior Center, 85 E. Holly St., is scheduled Tuesdays, April 10 to May 1, from 2 to 4 p.m. and will explore the diversity and shared elements of human nature across cultures and continents as revealed by theater.

The Masters Series, which embraces and promotes lifelong learning, is open to members of the Pasadena Senior Center. Non-members may try the series by attending their first presentation free of charge.

The spring series will include discussions and performances of folktales and fables from around the globe, the world of contemporary art, and British and Russian comedy. The last class will explore the mind and writings of theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking, including the performance of a scene that exemplifies his work.

Beverly Olevin, a theater director, playwright and award-winning novelist, will lead the spring term. Each session will delve into a specific theme, and each will feature professional actors who will perform live.

· April 10 – The Arabian Nights – Also known as One Thousand and One Nights, this collection of magical tales of wonder and adventure is of Asian and Arabic origin and was composed over the course of several centuries. With a theme of oppressor vs. oppressed, the tales are filled with lessons of compassion and have become an inextricable part of western cultural heritage.

· April 17 – How the Visual Arts Challenge Us – This series of theatrical scenes shows how our beliefs impact our relationships. They shine a light on the things that divide us and those that unite us.

· April 24 – Comedies Influenced by Culture – The famous Drawing Room comedies of British playwrights are compared with the unique comedies of Russia (and yes, Chekhov can be very funny). Discover how both types of comedies deal with social criticism and satire.

· May 1 – The Mind and Writings of Stephen Hawking – This session is designed to spark your imagination and help you gain a greater understanding of our universe through the eyes of this world-renowned theoretical physicist revered for his contributions to the fields of cosmology, general relativity and black holes. No scientific background is required to attend.

Each session is $15. Sign up for one or all sessions. To register or for more information, visit www.pasadenaseniorcenter.org, email PamK@pasadenaseniorcenter.org or call 626-685-6756.

Founded in 1960, the Pasadena Senior Center is an independent, nonprofit agency that offers recreational, educational, wellness and social services to people ages 50 and older in a welcoming environment. Services are also provided for frail, low-income and homebound seniors.