After a Winter storm delay, and for one weekend only, Theatre AUM presented a "showcase of student created written. visual, and performing arts" entitled ART IRL [In Real Life]. -- Its two dozen set of scenes, monologues, dances, poems, and visual projections lasted about an hour, and true to its title "showcased" the assorted talents of ten undergraduate students, each of whom was featured in several of the pieces.
Ranging from Classical to Standard theatre repertoire, interspersed with a few original selections, it was a mixed bag, indeed...if only there had been a few lighter or comic moments to relieve the ardent gravitas that dominated the selections.
Directed by Neil David Seibel [with student Assistant Directors Faith Roberts and Tiara Staples] on a bare stage except for two moveable scaffolds and a table and chairs, and a backdrop projecting titles and the featured performers/artists, each scene flowed smoothly from one to another, the neutral space accommodating the location of each scene.
Unlike a complete play in which actors have time to develop plot, conflict, and character, monologues and brief scenes presented out-of-context require full vocal and physical energy and commitment from the start. Unfortunately, far too many of ART IRL's selections were spoken too softly to be comprehended by the audience, and lacked animation and power from beginning to end.
AUM veteran actors Michael James Pritchard and Jay Russell served as models for the less experienced actors to follow; and special attention and appreciation to Meadow Lokey and Atticus O'Banner for following their lead by demonstrating vocal richness and interpretaions using clear textually dependent acting choices.
