 "Photo: Hanne Zak")
If you're looking for a break from your studying in the next two weeks, consider taking to the stage. All over Spokane, theatres are opening their doors to students for end-of-the-year shows, including Gonzaga's Magnuson Theatre.
Students from the Theatre Department's Directing I class are putting on their final exam, the Director's Cut performance. This is an opportunity to enjoy some really classic productions. Students chose scenes from three of theatre's mainstays: Edward Albee's "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf," Henrik Ibsen's "A Doll's House," and Marsha Norman's "'Night, Mother." The scenes last 10 minutes or less, and reflect about 100 hours of work.
For many of the 11 directors and their casts, this class can be their first exposure to the canvas-back chair.
Senior Ellen Mezzera had only directed a one-act play before Directing I.
"I had no idea how to approach a play as a director, but after taking this class, I understand the necessary process," she said.
After choosing their scene, students wrote a 20-40 page play analysis, said Mezzera, researching the political, economic, religious and social environments of the play's setting.
Dr. Brian Russo of the Theatre Department leads the class through the directing process. Over the course of the semester, he attends two of the mandatory 10 hour-long rehearsals to track his student directors' progress.
"Along with guiding students through the elements of play analysis, we work on actor communication and visualizing the scene, which includes creating a ground plan and movement plan," Russo said.
Senior Maria Hassett plays Mama, the title role in Mezzera's production of "'Night Mother." She said she has enjoyed the acting process despite the long hours of rehearsal.
"It's really cool, really fun," Hassett said. "I haven't acted since the second grade, so it's been a while. I'm learning tons."
"This class is key for students interested in performing and directing," Russo said. "Even if theatre majors do not direct again, it is crucial for them to be on the other side of the stage, so to speak. For those who wish to become directors, this is the introduction. For students who wish to develop leadership capabilities, it's a great course."
Anywhere from 40 to 60 students participate in the Director's Cut performances, Russo said, which is nothing compared to the hundreds who participate in the theatre department's productions every year.
"We are small, but mighty," Russo said.
Those in attendance will be a part of this production; after the completion of the entire performance, the audience fills out a survey which provides valuable feedback for the directors - feedback that is factored into their final grade.
Each of the 11 directors is required to bring 10 students to the production, and often the house is packed with friends and theater aficionados alike.
Sophomore Jennifer Ann Van Houdt suggests you attend.
"Everyone's scene choice was excellent, seating is limited and my actors are amazing," she said.
The Directing I class will hold free performances Dec. 12 from 7:30-8:45 p.m. at Magnuson Theatre in College Hall.
Other Spokane Theater Opportunities
The National Broadway Tour of "Sweeney Todd" will be at the Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox on Dec. 14 and 15 at 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices range from $32-$64, but Gonzaga students can purchase student rush tickets at half price.
Oprah Winfrey's production of "The Color Purple" will play at Spokane's INB Performing Arts Center from Dec. 10 - 14. Ticket prices range from $20 - $69.
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