The world their stage and the actors there to shine, the Theatre Department opened auditions for its October production-–right before the weekend’s show of Nunsense.
Designed to be a Shakespearean comedy with a southern twist, Twelfth Night or What You Will will be directed by Theatre Arts Professor Rebecca Crocker and TJ Baker, alumni.
“It’s a funny show, and we’re looking to have a good time,” Crocker said. “We’re looking for a laugh because most of the recent plays have been tragedies, and we see enough of that in today’s world. We want to laugh.”
Crocker also described the play to be a beautiful Shakespeare show with an Appalachian flare.
“It’s Shakespeare with southern accents,” she said.
With auditions, preparation has already begun, and performers of all talents and origin were encouraged to attend.
“We’re going to have music and a good time, and musicians and actors are what we need,” explained Crocker. “There is no experience necessary.”
Crocker even prepared monologues and scenes to perhaps calm the nerves of anticipated Panther performers.
Typically, auditions include prospects as young as 12, community members, homeschoolers, college students, and even those from surrounding counties.
Robyn Taylor, freshman, was one of many overjoyed to attend auditions.
“I think everyone is excited,” she commented. “The theatre is a fun place to be, and we have a fun performance in the making.”
Though Taylor is a freshman, this isn’t her first experience, and she encourages all to pursue the opportunities the Theatre Arts Department has to offer.
“This is my first year at Ferrum, but second with the theatre,” Taylor clarified, “and it’s like being part of a family from the very beginning. There is a place for every person, and every personality.”
The play appears to be for just about every personality, too.
“These characters are all of us, and they are timeless for a reason,” Crocker remarked.
Timeless, however, does not describe the progression of the performance. Official casting is to be announced in the upcoming week, and she show is set to take stage Oct. 17-20.
