Freshman Showcase slated for Houston stage

Theatre Northwest will kick off its new season next week with a production of "Wiley and the Hairy Man."

The show, the 22nd annual Freshman/Transfer Showcase, introduces a student cast and crew participating in Northwest Missouri State University's dramatic arts program for the first time.

Amanda Petefish-Schrag, associate professor of theatre, said the showcase offers newcomers a great introduction to college-level performance and stagecraft.

"It's a great process and experience for the students," Petefish-Schrag said. "To see the new students come together, not only as a group but as individuals, and to see them put on the production, is really special."

Auditions were held during the first week of classes, and full-on rehearsals began after Labor Day.

Since the performers must rehearse three to four hours every night of the week, participating students, many of them fresh from high school, have a mentor that helps them balance work, school and social activities.

"It's not like a nine-to-five job," Petefish-Schrag said. "And it never will be. What we really try to teach is the balance to help the students succeed in theater and as individuals."

"Wiley and the Hairy Man" is a children's show recommended for youngsters age 6 and up.

The play tells the story of Wiley, a young fatherless boy, his mother and his faithful dog.

Wiley meets the Hairy Man, who haunts his days and nights. In a duel of wits, Wiley learns to rely on his own resources and conquers not only the Hair Man but his own fears.

Evening shows are scheduled Oct. 4-6 with a 7:30 p.m. curtain. Matinees are scheduled for 4 p.m. Oct. 6 and 2 p.m. Oct. 7. All performances take place at the Ron Houston Center for the Performing Arts.

Tickets for adults are $8 and come with one child's ticket. Purchase tickets at the Student Services Center in the Administration Building or at the door beginning one hour prior to curtain.