Bryson Weaver, senior, stands beneath the theater stage directing as his dreams manifest into reality. Weaver is directing one of the two Senior One Acts, a show of a single act directed by a senior.
Weaver’s show is “Do Not Go Gentle” and is based around a poem with a stern undertone and hint of comedy.
“I’ve read this show many times before, so it felt right,” Weaver said. “The show hits home in so many ways, so being able to put my vision of the show on without anyone else telling me how to do it is absolutely awesome.”
Senior One Acts will run 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 1, and Friday, Feb. 2, in the Theater. Tickets are available at the door for $5.
To direct One Acts the senior has to be in a directing class. The process involves writing a paper on the show idea and revising it through to approval.
“It’s a dream come true. I’ve always wanted to direct a show,” Weaver said.
Three days after Weaver performed in MTC’s Footloose in December, he held auditions for his one act. Weaver said directing is absolutely incredible.
“I’m very, very proud of not just my actors, but also myself. I’m very joyful, just about the situation,” Weaver said. “And I’m also very excited. This is the first show I get to direct, hopefully many more to come.”
Sally Armstrong, sophomore, is participating in “Do Not be Gentle” as the granddaughter named Kelly. Armstrong said the One Acts are a way to have fun with the graduating seniors.
“I would like to participate every year,” Armstrong said. “You get to bond with some of the theater people and it’s not as serious as a full production.”
Nova Sanders, junior, plays a manager, customer and pirate in the one act “I Quit,” directed by senior Aria Garrett.
“At rehearsals we run through the act once, then get and give feedback on things we should change or improve on,” Sanders said. “It’s just a short, little practice to figure out our lines and placements.”
“I’ll definitely do this again next year,” Sanders said. “I like that Instead of having extra dialogue, it’s more focused on having fun.”
Paige Zimmerman, junior, was cast in “I Quit.” She’s loved the experience and has been wanting to be a part of the performance the whole year.
“The best part about the show is getting to hang out with all the cast,” Zimmerman said. “It’s been really enjoyable and worthwhile.”
