Wichita State University Theatre’s new film, “Dramedy,” will premiere at 7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, April 21-22, in the Welsbacher Theatre, Hughes Metropolitan Complex.
WSU Theatre began exploring film work with students five years ago with the web series, “The Opposite of People.” This led to other projects, including a course on acting for the camera in the Theatre Department.
Last year the department made its first film, “Redux,” and decided to make a film each year as part of students’ training.
“The film work expands the students’ education and experience, which is important,” said Bret Jones, theatre program director. “It’s good to get our students on the stage, as well as in front of a camera. The acting styles change from one medium to the next. The twenty-first century actor is one who performs in a multitude of mediums: film, television, commercials, theater, voice overs and the internet.”
This year’s film, “Dramedy,” rated PG, was filmed in January and February with students from the School of Performing Arts, and is written by Jones. The film is about Veronica, an aimless girl who delivers her grandmother’s car across the country and finds a missing relative on the way. It’s a mix of comedy and drama, just as the title implies.
“Working on this film has been an active learning experience,” said Jessica Curtiss, who plays Thalia in the movie. “One of the great things about WSU SPA is the willingness to go after these huge projects even when they’re new and intimidating. Everyone is pretty new to this, but each year the knowledge of the staff and students grows and I think the product reflects that.”
Tickets can be purchased at the Fine Arts Box Office in the lobby of the Duerksen Fine Arts Center or online at wichita.edu/fineartsboxoffice. General admission is $15, with $12 discount tickets available for seniors, faculty/staff and military or $10 tickets for children and students. WSU students are eligible for one free ticket (visit http://www.wichita.edu/j/?4363 for details). For ticketing assistance, contact the Fine Arts Box Office from 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, at 316-978-3233 or fasttickets@wichita.edu.