it’s easy. Theatre students constantly use math, science, architecture and design for set construction, sound properties for lighting and excellent time management skills, to name a few. According to UAPB Director of Theatre Cheryl Collins, MFA, that’s just the beginning. A theatre major that desires to act on stage must also have an emotional IQ. “It’s very rare in this country,” says Collins. “We often talk about intelligence IQ, but someone who is open enough to playing other people’s lives and representing them well on stage is not the easiest thing to do.” “If you just look at the acting portion of theatre – any time you do a play, you have to memorize a book,” says Collins. “You can’t just memorize your lines, you have to know when to speak.” While it’s not all work and no play, a tremendous amount of work goes into each production that requires late nights at times. “Any time you do something you love, you’re having fun.” Considering the skills needed by many different people, it’s an amazing sight but no small feat to see it work synergistically.
the journey to arkansas Having lived in Washington, D.C. for more than 15 years, Collins raised her son Stephen who’d gone off to college and found herself at a crossroad – mother was no longer her primary role. She was approached by a colleague at Coppin State University, Dr. Garey Hyatt, who recommended Collins and Skinner, unbeknownst to them. “I knew them both – Alexis was working with me at Coppin on a part time basis. Cheryl is my very good friend and was doing some wonderful things here at Prince Georges Community College,” said Hyatt. “Dr. Yolanda “Theatre is the place where everything comes together,” says Page (Dean - School Alexis Skinner, professor of theatre. “It relies on everyone’s of Arts and Sciences) cooperation, collaboration and creativity,” called me and asked for recommendations – Collins and Skinner were a From the stage, to the boards, to backstage perfect fit. I thank God that I was able to be a part of ushering performers around and making sure they’re the process.” where they need to be, light and sound design, behind the curtain If you’ve attended any of their set construction, choreography, writing, visual stellar productions, you can easily see the standard of communications and public relations, everyone has excellence they require of each component of a show to do their part. – but it doesn’t occur accidentally. helping students get their act together A common misconception about theatre is that Day one was not a walk in the park – there
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PRIDE Magazine