One-Act productions featured this J-term

Theatre students are taking on J-term, one act at a time. Alpha Psi Omega (APO), PLU’s national theatre society will present their annual One-Act Festival featuring student performed, directed and written material on January 21, 22, and 23 at 7:30pm in the Studio Theater. Additionally, a late season add-in, ‘Shatter’d,’ will be produced by student Jacob Viramontes on January 28, 29 and 30 at 7pm and 8pm in the Studio Theater.

This year the One Act Festival titled, “???” will revolve around the theme of uncertainty. The three question marks represent each show, which presents characters who are hesitant of something: “Cacophony of Idiocy” written and directed by Conner Wayne Brown, “Roommate Wanted” written by Katee Wilson and directed by Dane Ostlie-Olson, and “Just Found Kelly” written by Conner Wayne Brown and Katee Wilson, directed by Madisen Crowley.

“Each show is very different from the other, but they are all extremely fun. One is a meta theatrical farce, another showcases elements of historical fiction and romantic comedy, and a third that can only be classified as a “drama,” but that doesn’t stop it from being hilarious at times,” Jacob McCallister, production director, says. “Most importantly though, this eclectic group of stories comes from the minds of students. I think it is incredible that we have at least one opportunity to showcase what exactly our students can do, and create something where there was once absolutely nothing.”

Shatter’d, a 30 minute adaptation of The Life and Death of King Richard II shows the following weekend. The play covers the rise and fall of Richard’s reign as King from within the prison cell where he resides until his execution. The high-energy, ensemble-based, experimental theatre piece uses Shakespeare’s language to explore larger themes such as the human perception of time.

“Student collaboration is at the heart of the PLU theatre department, and this production has truly shown me the power of what can happen when students bring their thoughts and ideas to fruition and make something that they are passionate about,” Viramontes said .

Tickets to both productions are $5 and can be purchased at the Concierge Desk, at the door or by phone at 253-535-7411.

Alpha Psi Omega is the national theatre honor society dedicated to supporting student-produced theatre. PLU’s Theta Pi cast provides students the opportunity to produce theatre through Vpstart Crow, the annual APO featured show, the J-term One-Act Festival, and PLU’s resident improv team the Clay Crows.