Romance film recreates first love magic

BY BRENDA DE LA CRUZ Staff Writer

“Of An Age” reminds viewers of the nostalgia and heartache that often accompanies a first love.

Thom Green and Elias Anton lead the cast as the pair.

The tale of two lovers who share an unexpected but powerful connection within the span of 24 hours follows Kol, an amateur ballroom dancer, and Adam, the attractive college bound older brother of Kol’s friend.

The two meet unexpectedly and soon share an instant attraction.

Set in the summer of 1999 in Australia, the film follows the pair as they get to know each other during an eventful day.

The movie evokes a sense of simplicity when it comes to life, but it also does not shy away from complex issues.

These issues include love, bullying and fitting in.

The story’s use of quick bonds will resonate with viewers, especially in how the movie uses only one day in the characters’ lives to show the impact they have on each other.

The bond shown in this film shows exactly that, that sometimes one simply knows it’s the real thing.

It’s real and raw, and just what life is truly like for many.

Love is beautiful and can happen with anyone, despite sexual preferences.

Despite the beauty of love, the film also shows the barriers and obstacles that come with these emotions.

“Of An Age” brings all of this to the big screen.

A romantic film filled with giddy scenes full of flirtatious banter between the main characters.

The movie will make viewers think back to their first loves and relationships with a smile.

This year three students from ELAC were selected to participate in the festival for their respective categories: Julia Chavez in dancing, David Rangel in acting, and Alexis Castro for props.

There are various categories represented in the festival.

They include acting, design, directing, playwriting, stage management, dramaturgy, arts leadership, and theater criticism.

Chavez applied two weeks before the Musical Theater Initiatives that were held along with the Irene Ryan acting competition.

She was among 20 other dancers to perform in an ensemble dance number at the Musical Theater Dance Showcase and Cabaret. She sent out her headshot and acting/dance resume and was invited to audition.

Chavez was excited and grateful to show her dance skills surrounded by a group of wonderful and talented people.

This showcase of “true love” is what helps viewers believe the storyline.

Viewers can connect their own experiences to what the movie shows.

This is not a typical Hollywood movie, and that is exactly what makes it work so well.

The entire film is filled with a soothing and timeless soundtrack, featuring millennial age artists such as Tori Amos, Nelly Furtado and The Cardigans.

Written and directed by Goran Stolevski, the film released in theaters February 17.

She performed a short musical theater dance combination that was choreographed by guest artist Corry West.

When asked if she hoped to win a scholarship, she said, “Most definitely! I’d be honored to be awarded a scholarship for my work because I put my whole heart into my craft as an artist.”

Chavez hopes to grow more as a dancer and take pride in doing what she is destined to do in her theatrical journey.

She hopes to gain more courage as a performer that will help her continue to unlock her further potential.

Rangel is in his fourth year at ELAC and it is his first time attending the festival, which was held in Las Vegas.

Rangel was a finalist and won the award for best classical performance in acting.

His partner, Jezmarie Viramontes, won the award for best scene partner.

Rangel said, “It was a great experience and felt a lot of pride when my partner and I made it to the final round and actually won an award.”

Castro applied for the Design and Technical Management side of the theatrical world.

In order to apply, a person must have designed an aspect of the show.

This includes props, lighting, sound, and scenic.

This was his first time applying to the festival and was excited to showcase his work and have the opportunity to meet other theater students from around the region.

Castro gained insight into the individuals who work behind the scenes in theater around the region.

He met a lot of student designers, professors, and working professionals.

“ I was lucky enough to be given a behind the scenes tour of “Michael Jackson: One.” I received the regional award for props and Student Choice Award. It was great to feel acknowledged for my work.”

The festival gives theater students the opportunity to learn and connect with established theater artists.

There are a wide range of activities that have included workshops and seminars that all students are encouraged to participate in.

There are a number of scholarships and awards given out throughout the week.

The National Festival is broken down into eight regions.

Region eight comprises Arizona, Central and Southern California, Hawaii, Southern Nevada, Utah, and Guam.

It is an opportunity for young student artists who are ready to learn more about their craft.