This year, theatre majors and theatre-loving students alike have had the opportunity to write, direct and perform in 16 original and unique plays, each written in Jeff Taylor’s play writing class during the past fall semester.
“It’s interesting that Northwestern’s campus is involved in this kind of production,” said junior Abigail Bierly, the writer of the play “Explosions of Beautiful Change.”
“It’s a new experience because once you write [the play], it’s no longer in your hands,” Bierly said. “I’m excited to see all of that work on stage and coming to life.”
Directors picked plays that had meaning to them and performance elements that they appreciated from the plays written by fellow students from their class.
“One acts are a great opportunity for all of campus to be involved in theater—it’s a low time commitment and helps to bridge gaps between different majors,” said junior Keely Wright, who is acting in the play “A Date to Keep” and is directing “Your Home Now.”
“My favorite part is that not all of the actors are consistently in productions, but they are still passionate about trying, and to see that growth and the production come to life in a way that is different than maybe expected,” Wright said.
Even within the plays, the audience can expect a certain level of unpredictability.
“Every performance is a little different and susceptible to change and brings its own unique feel,” Wright said.
Many of the writers, including senior Ericha Walden who wrote “Ajodha and Shanigans,” are looking forward to seeing their pieces getting acted out.
“To see it being performed is intimidating, but also very exciting,” Walden said. “What I’m most excited for is the conversation it will evoke.”
The 16th annual World Premiere Festival will be held at 6:30 pm on March 23 and 24 in the Allen Theatre of the DeWitt Theatre Arts Center.
Each performance is approximately 10 to 20 minutes long.
Admission is free, and people are welcome to come and go as they please.
