The 2017 Winter One Acts of the North Central Theater program always presents spectacular shows. What some of those that attend don’t realize is the behind the scenes work that it takes to create these shows.
These acts are student lead and are treated with tremendous professionalism. The directors of the acts play important roles in the production. These students are responsible for designing the look and feel of these shows and for organizing their casts that range from veterans to theater-newbies for a clean-cut-show.
One of the shows is called Honeymoon Motel by Woody Allen and is directed by Susie Sullivan. This show is about Nina, a bride-to-be who runs off with a rather unlikely member of the wedding party. After she runs away with him to a motel, they are ambushed by the significant members of the wedding party.
“All I can say about the show is that it is a lot of fun and to pay attention because there’s a lot of funny, small details that make the show what it is,” Sullivan said.
Another act, Next Door, is directed by Zoe Richardson. The story follows a young boy, Paul, who is left home alone one day. He overhears his neighbors having an argument and steps in with the help of a Radio DJ. In a true comedic fashion, everything goes awry.
“I didn’t even realize it was a comedy when I first read it. It was really intimidating at first, but once I got into the groove of things, I couldn’t imagine not directing this show,” Ricardson said.
The last show, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, is directed by Mason Perry. This show is about a man who develops a split personality disorder. Jekyll is a humble scientist, while Hyde is a deranged murderer. The two personalities fight over dominance of the other.
“I’d like the public to know that the show is intense and not to be taken lightly. There are graphic images and disturbing moments but they make the show so much more beautiful,” Mason said.
The shows themselves present a unique opportunity for each student to put their mark on NC but the directors are very excited to present the 2017 Winter One Acts. Thursday, February 23 at 7 p.m. and Friday, February 24 at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
