Theatre Class Presents One Act Plays

The Theatre Department’s play direction class will present the work of nine new directors in one act plays at 8 p.m. May 3-5 in the Ophelia Parrish Severns Theatre.

The class, taught by assistant professor David Charles Goyette, directs plays from some of the best playwrights from around the country as a final assignment. The plays had to be published within the last 80 years, between 10-30 minutes in length and without heavy science, costume, light or sound effects.

These final productions represent a synthesis of numerous concepts explored in the course of the semester. Students explored composition and picturization techniques, scene analysis, how to develop a directorial approach and methods on how to work with actors.

The play direction course is required of all theatre majors in order to graduate. Admission is free for the one act plays. For more information, contact Goyette at dcgoyette@truman.edu.

May 3
“The Actor’s Nightmare”
By: Christopher Durang
Directed by: Tim Walters
An actor’s worst nightmare come true.

“Wedding Duet”
By: Lauren Wilson
Directed by: Callie Crawford
What happens after you say “I do?”

“Good Neighbors”
By: John Bartholomew Tucker
Directed by: Violet Odzinski
A forbidden romance in the dead of day.

May 4
“From the Mouths of Babes”
By: Eva Anderson
Directed by: Jessie O’Brien
A trio of disgruntled students plot revenge against their teacher.

“Land of the Dead”
By: Neil LaBute
Directed by: Seth Betzler
In New York City, a couple remembers a life-changing decision and the aftermath that ensues.

“Sure Thing”
By: David Ives
Directed by: Andrew Milhous
A witty comedy reflecting on the importance of having the perfect words to say during first impressions.

May 5
“There is No Bottom”
By: Mark O’Donnell
Directed by: Kaitlyn Chotrow
Hilarity ensues when three die-hard actors and a stage manager try to make their way through their script but end up changing lines, skipping text and one-upping each other.

“English Made Simple”
By: David Ives
Directed by: Jacque Arnold
Finally understand the twists and turns of a couple’s relationship through its various stages and use of language, with help from a handy translator.

“Banging Ann Coulter”
By: Michael Elyanow
Directed by: Brian Behrens
Four unlikely heroes relate their sexual escapades with a certain conservative commentator.