ISU Theatre is bringing Alexander Dumas’ classic novel to the stage in their production of “The Three Musketeers.” In this adaptation by Ken Ludwig, expect an action-packed night filled with gripping twists and romance cloaked in deceit.

But just how easy is it to bring the well-known book to the stage? Because the novel is known for its thrilling fight scenes, actors in this production need to be physically fit to properly perform the familiar scenes.

Kivan Kirk, junior in performing arts, landed the lead role of d’Artagnan and said he enjoys wielding a sword and building the stamina that accompanies a demanding fight scene.

“I’d never done any sword fighting before. It was rigorous but fun and it’s an invaluable experience,” Kirk said.

As far as bringing d’Artagnan from the black and white to flesh and blood goes, Kirk said he draws on lessons from former acting classes and tries to “figure out what the characters’ objectives are.” Because of the plethora of adaptations on this beloved novel in the form of movies and plays, Kirk feels that “there’s a lot to live up to.”

Rehearsals began a week after winter break and involved the recruitment of Ian Borden from the University of Lincoln, Nebraska to choreograph the swordfight scenes. Director Jane Cox searched through 150 certified fight choreographers, and Borden traveled to Ames every Friday night to teach the students for nine hours over the weekend. With the abundance of duels and battles in the book, Cox and Borden had their hands full in bringing the combat to the stage.

While the cast and director were battling it out, so to speak, costume designer Kelly Schaefer was creating her own work of art. ”The Three Musketeers” is set in the 17^th century at a time when fashion required a great deal of material. Having worked on Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night,” Schaefer had “a good frame of reference” for the design of the characters’ clothes. Porthos, one of the musketeers, is known as a trendy prankster in the book and it was up to Schaefer to portray his character as such through “brighter colors that would distinguish him.”

Milady is another character that received special attention on her wardrobe. Schaefer employed an iridescent fabric that depicted the two-faced demeanor of the antagonist.

“I get a chance to talk to the audience before the character gets to speak,” Schaefer said. “I think it’s my job to tell them who’s who by using design and psychological principles.”

With months of work put in both on and off stage, Cox said she hopes people will come to this new adaptation of “The Three Musketeers” and reward the group’s hard work.

“It covers all the major events [of the novel] and keeps all the values of it intact,” Kirk said. “It adds character.”