Theater an act of love for students

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    By Sunny Layne

    Student actors of the upcoming satirical comedy “Misalliance” juggle hours of demanding rehearsal with unrelenting school and job responsibilities.

    “I have never known busier people than theater people,” said “Misalliance” cast member Cort Kirksey. “They are absolutely the craziest, biggest gluttons for punishment on campus — but it”s all worth it.”

    Like many of his fellow zealots, Kirksey starts his day early, before 7 a.m. He works from 8 a.m. until noon as a custodian, followed by jumping into a full load of classes and later running to his rehearsal, which ends at 10 p.m. He gets to bed by midnight, then springs up the next morning to do it all again.

    Even though Kirksey admits his schedule is nearly impossible, his unabashed love for the theater keeps him running. This Energizer-bunny-like attitude exists in his fellow student actors, as well.

    “Theater is what I love to do, and so I just find time to do it,” said stage manager Melissa Larson. “My parents would not be happy with me for saying this, but because this is what I want to do, it”s my first priority.”

    However, after years of spinning several plates at once, many student actors have become champs at the art of multitasking.

    “I try to be smart,” said cast member Clay Bunker, a junior majoring in acting. “The shows not really good if you”re in poor health, so I usually try to take care of myself and get enough sleep and get enough exercise. I”ve managed to keep my grades up on top of everything else.”

    The cast of “Misalliance” began rehearsing this summer, averaging between four to six hours a day. Since fall semester began, director Barta Heiner reduced the practices to three hours on school days.

    In order to help lighten student loads, the theater department also grants actors credit for play participation.

    Notwithstanding efforts to help students along, theater, by its nature, is demanding. The cast”s simmering schedule will shortly develop into a rapid boil.

    “There will be times we run a little bit later and things are kind of crazy,” said Larson, a graduate student in dramatic theory and criticism. “That”s just kind of the way the game goes.”

    After the actors” extensive labor, their attitudes remain enthusiastic.

    “I love it more than anything,” Kirksey said. “It is the best part of my day, rehearsal.”

    Audiences can see the fruits of their efforts beginning Oct. 3 until Oct. 18, 2003 in the Pardoe Theatre. Theatergoers may purchase tickets at the Harris Fine Arts Center Box Office or by calling the box office at 378-4322.

    Regular seats are $12 and student tickets are $9. Preview seats for Oct. 1 and 2 as well as all Saturday matinees are $5.

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