THEATER:No boys allowed in Vanguard’s ‘Joan’

When Vanguard University takes the wraps off its upcoming production of George Bernard Shaw’s “Saint Joan” next weekend, something will be missing — men.

Director Marianne Savell has cast an all-female company in the 1924 historical drama of a French farm girl who gets her marching orders directly from God and leads the French army to victory over English occupation forces.

“We’ve approached the play in a straightforward manner, a group of college women telling Joan’s story,” Savell explains. “We’re not trying to fool anyone, focusing on the essence and actions of each character, all of whom happen to be male, sans Joan.”

The story of Joan of Arc has been told and retold in various novels, movies and stage productions. Shaw’s version — portraying Joan as not only a Catholic saint and martyr, but also as a combination of practical mystic, heretical saint and inspired genius — earned him the 1925 Nobel Prize for literature.

“ ‘Saint Joan’ has been a passion and a major influence in my artistic life,” Savell said. “It seems that Joan of Arc has touched the minds and hearts of many women, and Shaw’s interpretation of her particularly so.

“For me, the opportunity to direct this production with all women — who are very close to the age Joan was when [she] led the French army and eventually was tried and burned at the stake — is truly special and quite haunting.”

At Vanguard, the role of Joan will be played by Brianna Sehorn. The timid French dauphin, Charles, whom Joan champions, will be enacted by Allison Schlicher, with Sasha Stewart, JoAnne Martens, Brittany Uggle and Andrea Carpenter filling other major roles.

Completing the Vanguard cast will be Donna Johnson, Alyssa Wakley, Rebecca Testrake, Chelsea Lawrence, Bethany Lomas, Erin Wendorf, Kimberly Bower, Christine Summering and Rebecca Haller.

“The play is really an ensemble piece with meaty and smart roles,” Savell says. “Our hope is that you’ll see and hear ‘Saint Joan’ in a new light, be inspired by her all over again and take the past into your future.”

IF YOU GO

WHAT: “Saint Joan”

WHERE: Lyceum Theater at Vanguard University, 55 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa

WHEN: Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. through Nov. 5.

COST: $8 to $10

BOX OFFICE: (714) 668-6145