Fall Play Cast List
10/16/2026
Tickets are available online at www.bluffton.edu/tickets
Production offers a modern take on the story of St. Clare of Assisi
Bluffton University Theatre has announced the cast and production team for its fall play, “Poor Clare” by Chiara Atik.
“It’s 1211 in Assisi, Italy, and Clare’s got beauty, wealth and a rich suitor who showers her with expensive presents. So why is she so drawn to this guy Francis who gave up all his possessions just because poor people are suffering? Everyone in town says he’s crazy. And yet… she starts seeing everything in her life differently. This hilarious, anachronistic telling of the real story of St. Clare considers the cost of doing good – and how little has changed for the haves and the have-nots in almost a millennium." -Dramatists Play Service, Inc.
The cast includes Bluffton University students, community members and alumni:
- Clare - Avery Lawrence, first-year, P-5 education major from Harrod, Ohio
- Beatrice - Alexandria Schmidt, sophomore, environmental science major from Urbana, Ohio
- Alma - Claire Lortz, sophomore, nutrition and dietetics major from Upper Sandusky, Ohio
- Peppa - Madison Palmisano, first-year student, nursing major from Cincinnati, Ohio
- Beggar/The Poor - Keira Rahm, senior, food and nutrition major from Versailles, Ohio
- Francis - Adam Shanaman ’22, Buckland, Ohio
- Ortolana - Liana Gott ’92, Findlay, Ohio
The production is directed by Dr. Melissa Friesen, professor of theatre and communication. Merv Schrock is the technical director, and Brit Mustard is the costume designer. Jordyn Garmatter ’26 of Bluffton, Ohio, will serve as stage manager.
Performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 12-14 and 2:30 p.m. Nov. 15 in Ramseyer Auditorium, College Hall.
All seats are reserved, and tickets are available at www.bluffton.edu/tickets. Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for senior citizens, Bluffton University faculty and staff, and non-Bluffton University students. Admission is free for Bluffton University students.