Linfield University’s Theatre Program will present Springfest: Student–directed Theatre Shorts at 7:30 p.m. May 18 and 19 in Marshall Theatre located within Ford Hall.
Admission is free and seating is first-come, first-served. Two one-act plays are part of the performance, “Frankenstein” and a staged reading of “First on the Rope.” Students from Linfield’s advanced directing course, taught by Janet Gupton, collaborated to produce the show.
“Springfest gives budding stage directors a chance to apply what they have learned as theatre artists (acting, design concepts, time management, leadership, communication skills, and creative problem-solving) to guide a play from selection of the script to a full production,” said Gupton. “These student directors not only made fun memories with their casts during the rehearsal process, but their work as a director embodies the well-rounded artist our program strives to develop during their education at Linfield.”
Ellie Gossett ’23 directs “Frankenstein,” about rogue scientist Victor Frankenstein whose murderous creation must be dealt with before its discovery. The story is based on Mary Shelley’s classic novel of the same title. With the production, Gossett wants to bring new light to an old story and the true dangers humanity presents to itself. The cast includes Elliot Curry, Lucy Gordon, Weston Lawrence, Danny McCann, Sydney Monroe, Alea Tran, and Robert Turner.
David Gray ‘22, a descendant of the Siletz Tribe, directs a staged reading of “First on the Rope.” The play, written by Tim Kelly, details the journey of four women who wish to make a name for themselves in a field dominated by men. As the women progress up a mountain, their noble summit turns into a ruthlessly real reflection of how Indigenous peoples are disregarded and disrespected.
“Although it can be difficult, it is so important to bring Indigenous stories into the theatre world. I took this opportunity to bring my heritage to Linfield’s stage,” Gray said. “I hope to honor my grandmother, a member of the Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians, as well as the 22 federally recognized Tribes of Arizona with this production.”
The “First on the Rope” cast includes Zane Biamonte, Hailee Foster ’21, Prof. Janet Gupton, and Sydney Monroe.
Sponsored by the Linfield Theatre Program, both plays are produced by special arrangement with Dramatic Publishing Company of Woodstock, Illinois. These plays may not be suitable for all audiences. Due to adult language and content, the productions are recommended for ages 14 and older.
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