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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. Play #1--T.B.A.--Thursday, August 27, at 7 p.m. Play #2--A Christmas Carol--Thursday, October 15, at 7 p.m. Upcoming Events--SUMMER 2009 SOMETHING NEW and NOTHING SERIOUS Directors: Kenneth Erickson Jr. and Dean Anthony Genre: Comedy Synopsis: A collection of contemporary comedies by Phil Hall (co-author of "Children of the Day") and Rich Orloff (author of "Ha!"). Cast: Olivia Abbacchi, Nicholas DeLisi, Joshua Fishbein, Mitchell Lane, Brittany Miller Matt Porter, Janet Raines, Mariana Rocha, Mike Schinzel and Katelyn Studer. Performance Dates and Times: June 19 and 20 at 8 p.m. and June 21 at 2 p.m. in the David S. & Anne V. Howard Studio Theatre, Bldg. 11, Room 163. Tickets: $10 for reserved seats; $5 for MCC students and staff. Tickets go on sale June 9 in the Neel Performing Arts Center Box Office, open 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. weekdays. The Howard Studio Theatre Box Office will open one hour before each performance. Seating Chart
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 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. Soon 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 helped pack and move 35 years worth of theatre materials prior to the studio theatre's dismantling. For the 2007-08 season, Studio 84 Productions was housed in the former film annex during major remodeling of the new performing arts wing. On September 26, 2008, the first performance of "The Servant of Two Masters" was held in the new 116-seat David S. & Anne V. Howard Studio Theatre. 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.
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