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Theater Education student Robert Mac Minshew has created an opportunity for Utah State University students to engage with theater in a new way. The Student Production Association is an opportunity for students to write and produce an original play during the school year.
McKenna Finley, a senior in the theater education program, said the new club was important to her and students have wanted an opportunity like SPA for many years.
“SPA is an opportunity for students to really experience realizing their own dreams,” Finley said. “It’s a chance for anyone who wants to try something to try it, without thousands of dollars of college money being invested in it. So it’s a safe place to try and fail with a good support system.
Dylan Seeley, president of theater education for SPA, said the club is a unique opportunity that encourages student collaboration.
“What really excites me is writing plays and directing student works, and showing people that there is more behind us than just acting, teaching or teaching. ‘turn on lights for shows,’ Seeley said.
SPA students will spend the fall semester writing, processing, and revising an original piece. During the spring semester, auditions, rehearsals and performances will take place. Students can choose what they want to get involved in and how much time they can devote to the SPA.
“We don’t have time for ourselves, and so really, I wanted to create this project with that kind of mindset, thinking or allowing people to give what they are capable of giving, and not feeling bogged down by the weight of responsibility of doing a normal show or something,” Minshew said. “If people want to come to a meeting and see what it’s all about, that’s fine. If you want devoting all your time to this is fine. Whatever time you are able to give is time that will be valuable to us.
Seeley said SPA is a learning opportunity and creative collaboration where everyone has a voice.
The theme for this year’s game is “The Game”. Minshew said some of the scene ideas involved board game fights, flipping risk play, and audience participation.
“I’m really excited to see everyone’s work come together in one show this spring,” Seeley said. “I think it’s going to be something really unique, and it’s going to open doors to new opportunities for a lot of people.”
All students – regardless of major – are welcome to join SPA at any time of the year.
“A lot of people stop doing theater after high school, even though it’s something they’re really passionate about, and it’s a way to keep one foot in the water, to be able to keep exploring,” Finley said. . “It’s not competitive, it’s not hierarchical and it’s a safe place for everyone. And if you’ve always wanted to audition for a show but didn’t know when the auditions are or don’t know what to expect, then coming to SPA will open that door up a bit more for everyone.
Interested students can contact Minshew, the club president, at A02201092@usu.edu.
