Play hits the big 'time'

For the first time in the history of the University's Department of Theater and Drama, the acting and directing studios are working together on a production written by a student playwright.

"smalltime," a new student play, will be workshopped tonight at 5 in the Arena Theater.

PREVIEW
	smalltime Tonight at 5 p.m. Arena Theater

The play follows the antics in the greenroom of a variety show that has been overbooked with illustrious guests for the evening.

"smalltime" will be presented on a double bill with another student play, "Neverever Never Ever," written by Music junior Jason Lindner. Lindner has described his piece as "a Beckettian absurdist romp that might mean something after all."

The cast of "smalltime" rehearse for today's performance.

Michael Zilberman, an LSA senior and playwright of "smalltime," has written numerous dramatic works, including "Mercury," which established him among the Hopwood elite. In 1996, Zilberman won the prestigious award, an annual University tradition that rewards creative writers in the areas of short story, poetry, essay and drama. Later that year, "Mercury" was performed as part of the RC Players' regular season. In 1997, Zilberman was presented a Newman Dramatic Writing Award.

Within the Department of Theater and Drama, performance majors have the option of electing a class that concentrates on the artform of theater direction. Taught by professor John Neville Andrews, who directed this past fall's acclaimed futuristic production of "Henry V," the students choose a play that they direct in an informal setting. Usually, well-established works are attempted by the group.

For the first time, a student work is being showcased. Directed by Kevin Stahl, a Music junior, "smalltime" features a cast of performance majors, including Aral Gribble, Carrie Keranen, Ryan Metzger, Julia Siple and Michael Spatafora.

- "smalltime" and "Neverever Never Ever" will be presented today at 5 p.m. The Arena Theater is located in the basement of the Freize Building. Admission is free.

03-16-98