The Drake University Department of Theatre Arts will present a collection of three student-produced short plays beginning Friday, Oct. 24. Performances will start at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 24 and 25 and 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, in Studio 55 of the Harmon Fine Arts Center, 2505 Carpenter Ave.
Eric Deutz, a junior musical theatre major, is directing “The Green Hill” by David Ives.
“I chose this show because it is a wonderful story, and I think the audience will really be able to relate to the characters’ stories and what they’re going through,” said Deutz, who cast three first-year students in his directorial debut. He said he’s grateful for the opportunity to produce his own show.
“It is incredibly rare for artists to have this kind of artistic freedom to experiment and produce their own works and ideas,” Deutz said. “This is really a great experience for us actors and directors as we prepare to enter the profession in just a few years.”
Senior theatre education major Shay Miller is directing the comedic play “Socks” by Rosemary Frisino Toohey.
“This show is the funniest show I’ve read,” Miller said. “My goal is for people to leave the show after having a good laugh with a big smile on their face.”
Abigail Diamond, a senior directing major and musical theatre minor, is director of a self-written production called “Delirium.”
“I decided to write this play about mental health because I think it is a very important but often neglected topic in society,” said Diamond, who hopes that her play will help to reduce the stigma that surrounds mental health.
Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for students and senior citizens, and $1 for those with a Drake Card. Tickets are available at the Fine Arts Center Box Office. Reservations, which are recommended, may be made in person or by calling 515-271-3841. Some of the shows contain strong language and adult situations.
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