Political issues tackled in 24-hour theater event at Central

Theater students at Central Wyoming College hold up the proverbial mirror to the nation’s political activities as they prepare for the 24-hour marathon theater event 4 (or more) in 24 scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 22 at 7:30 p.m.

In a non-stop one day marathon, multiple casts rehearse at least four original, short productions and then immediately perform them. This is the second time for CWC to perform this avant-garde form of theater though this year’s event features a political twist.

“It’s so close to this important election, I thought it would be appropriate to point out that theater is a tool to discuss political and social issues,” said Director Mike Myers.

Last year, Myers had 33 actors and technicians come together 24 hours prior to the opening on the Robert A. Peck Arts Center main stage to rehearse and build scenery and props.

“This year it’s harder because the students can’t just write any play. It has to have a political theme,” Myers said.

Four (or more) of the scripts will be selected by a panel to be produced. Myers said the directors, four students with previous experience, choose their actors by pulling names from a hat. The directors, who get to preview the script one day ahead of time, can single out the roles for the actors they have randomly selected.

Anyone’s name that is not drawn, along with those who have expressed non-acting jobs, are expected to be theater technicians who will provide set pieces, costumes, props, lighting, sound cues, a program and other needs for the show.

The audience will be seated on the Arts Center stage, surrounding the actors on three sides. Only about 100 tickets will be sold at $3 each. The proceeds from the tickets are being used by Myers to purchase food for the cast and crew as well as materials for scenery, props and costumes.

Once the actors and crew come to the Arts Center they will not be allowed to leave until after the shows are finished and the theater is cleaned up. Myers is the only one allowed to leave so he can make the necessary purchases. Last year, participants brought sleeping bags to catch a nap. For more information, contact Myers at (307) 855-2217 or email him at mmyers@cwc.edu. Tickets may be purchased at the CWC Box Office or at www.tickets.cwc.edu.