The Methodist University Department of Theatre will present “The Poetry Project,” the latest installment of the department’s “Works in Progress” project in Huff Concert Hall on the campus of Methodist University, Oct. 1-3 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 4 at 2 p.m.
The Methodist University Department of Theatre will present “The Poetry Project,” the latest installment of the department’s “Works in Progress” project in Huff Concert Hall on the campus of Methodist University, Oct. 1-3 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 4 at 2 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public.
This is the fourth semester the department has mounted a “Works in Progress” production, which invites members of the MU community to write and produce original works for the stage, poetry, movement pieces, or partial scripts, which are then workshopped and guided with faculty assistance. “The Poetry Project” turns attention to poetry written by members of the MU community. Performers and spoken word authors will cover a wide range of human experiences, and images suggested by the pieces form a major component of the set. Due to some of content, “The Poetry Project” is not recommended for young children.
“I have performed spoken word for open mic nights held by Kappa Alpha Psi, the Davis Memorial Library, and the Student Activities Committee,” said Christina Jenkins, one of the students working on the project. “For me, ‘The Poetry Project’ is different because it gives me the chance to perform for more people and age groups, rather than just my fellow students. It also gives me the chance to illustrate my feelings not only in words, but in art. I get to stand before them and let them know that I will be heard, and they will listen.”
One of the pieces, “Shards,” is a poem by student Kaelyn Harling, divided into a six-person performance piece, staged by fellow student Erin Arauz. Theatre Chair Evan Bridenstine said that “Shards” was the beginning of this production’s poetry focus.
“I consider ‘The Poetry Project’ its own beginning,” Bridenstine said. “WIP will more than likely include many more poems in the future.”
Following this show, the University will launch a production of “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” from Nov. 12-15. For more information, contact Dr. Evan Bridenstine, Chair of the Department of Theatre at ebridens@methodist.edu or 910.630.7483.