|
Studio 84 ProductionsIntroductionThe theatre program of the Department of Fine and Performing Arts presents four or five shows annually under the name of Studio 84 Productions. These comedies, dramas, mysteries and musicals are presented in either the Neel Performing Arts Center or in the new David S. & Anne V. Howard Studio Theatre. These theatre productions are staged by professional directors, most of whom also serve as full-time or adjunct theatre faculty. Auditions are open to MCC students and community members. Upcoming Events--FALL 2008 THE SERVANT OF TWO MASTERS AH, WILDERNESS! Seating ChartA layout of the new Studio Theatre will be posted soon. The Story of Studio 84In November 1966, the MCC Department of Theatre presented its first production, "The Little Hut" on the stage of the Samuel R. Neel Auditorium. In the summer of 1972, a “black box” studio theatre was constructed under the leadership of Professor John W. James, the director of theatre. The wooden risers originally seated folding chairs until 120 seats were salvaged from the old Players of Sarasota building. However, only 84 seats could fit into the theatre, which led to the studio theatre’s original name. In the late-1970s, a workshop was added onto the building for scenery construction and costume maintenance and plumbing was added for a washer and dryer. A dead-end hallway was converted into a costume shop and a suspended loft was added to create a prop room. In the mid-1980s, a new stage was built and the original 84 seats were replaced with newer, larger and more comfortable ones. The old wooden risers were replaced one or two at a time with welded steel risers and casters. In the early 1990s, Studio 84 obtained a new lobby, hallway, and box office. Shortly after his retirement in December 1998, Studio 84 Theatre was renamed the John W. James Studio Theatre in honor of the professor’s perseverance in fulfilling his vision of transforming a hollow shell into a vital studio theatre. The final performance in the John W. James Studio Theatre was held on June 16, 2007. One week later, 40 alumni from the 70s onward helped pack and move 35 years worth of theatre materials prior to the studio theatre's dismantling. A major remodeling of a new performing arts wing, which will include a new 120-seat studio theatre is underway and is scheduled to open in August 2008. In the interim, Studio 84 Productions will be housed in the former film annex, which has been converted to a small Chamber Theatre for the 2007-08 season. Theatre ClassesClasses in the dramatic arts are offered each semester through the Department of Fine and Performing Arts. Please click here to see the course of study. For further information, please click here to contact Ken Erickson , director of theatre, or by telephone at (941)752-5586. Delta Psi OmegaDelta Psi Omega was organized March 20, 1929, as an honorary dramatic fraternity for the purpose of providing an honor society for those doing a high standard of work in college dramatics. The expansion of Delta Psi Omega among the colleges of the United States and Canada provides a wider fellowship for those interested in college theatre. The Manatee Community College chapter of Delta Psi Omega, Cast #202, was established in 1966. Students are admitted into this national honorary fraternity at an awards banquet held each April. Delta Psi Omega funds go directly to the students in the form of tuition scholarships and theatre activities, including the New York Theatre Honors Tour each March. Mailing ListIf you are interested in receiving additional information about Studio 84 Productions and upcoming performances, please contact James Thaggard box office manager, by e-mail or by telephone at (941)752-5252. |
