Most individuals have experienced the challenges and excitement of being a member of a team. Whether it be in athletics, on a science team, or in a church group, the collaborative ensemble undertakes a process to achieve an objective. The collaborative art of mounting a theatre production is a team effort. In many respects, the process is no different than that of any other team endeavor. All group activities require coordination, compromise, dependability, initiative, preparation, practice and team spirit. Each member must strive for excellence and fulfill his/ her share of the project or the entire group will suffer. For the remainder of the semester, members of Drama 1304 (Introduction to Theatre) will collaborate in a process which will ultimately lead to the creation of a show for public presentation.

This semester's MATCHBOX THEATRE Production will be written and directed by William M. Razavi. Willy has been actively involved with Matchbox Theatre since 1995. He received his MFA in playwriting from Brandeis University. A published playwright and director, he had written 25 plays specifically for this class and has directed on numerous occasions. A collection of Matchbox Theatre plays written by Razavi can be found at http://www.trinity.edu/sgilliam/MATCHBOX/razaviplays.html

On April 25 and 26, members of Drama 1304 and 2310 will collaborate to produce two evenings of performances for the general public.  To do so, members of both classes will assume all the functions necessary to produce theatre.  The class will assist in the creation of the theatre space by painting backgrounds and helping locate or make properties and scenic pieces.  Members will light the production.  Some will need to serve as costume designers and wardrobe personnel.  The project requires sound designers and operators as well as backstage crew, ushers, publicity and ticket sellers, program and poster designers. Of course, the project will need actors, stage mangers, and assistants to the director. There will be ample opportunities for all members of both classes.   Professor Gilliam will serve as the Executive Producer with Mr. Razavi as Director and Playwright. Ultimately, however, this will be a presentation of and by the members of the Introduction to Theatre and the Principles of Design classes. Your syllabi indicate the general production calendar. You will note that during our preparation, you will continue to work on classroom activities and assignments. The majority of the rehearsals and preparation for the production will happen apart from the class meeting time. The general guideline for course work at this institution is that for every contact (credit) hour the instructor may assign up to two hours of homework (some instructors assign more). A three hour class should expect up to 6 hours a week of outside classroom work. Your preparation and rehearsal work should fall within this time commitment provided you do not fall behind and adhere to the production calendar deadlines. The success of the production is ultimately up to you.