Another time, another place

    William McQuaig, a senior theatre major, wrote a movie script and turned it into a short story and then took the short story and made it a play.  The revised script later became McQuaig’s senior capstone.
    “I originally came up with the idea (for “Encircled”) around 3 a.m. in my apartment,” McQuaig said.  “I wondered what it would be like if we were our own twin, but in a different time and whether or not we would know it.  It can be a little confusing, but I am a big fan of stories that make you think and don’t make sense until you piece together the puzzle.”
    Everyone involved with the play’s production had difficulty understanding the general concept of the script.  Mayan accounts determining the end of the world and déjà vu are difficult concepts to grasp, especially when they are combined in one story.  
    Essentially “Encircled” is a suspense thriller with a surprise ending that should keep the audience wanting more.  Danielle Moen, a freshman English and creative writing major, was one of many who had trouble understanding.
    “I did not understand what the play was about until around the 6th run-through (of the script),” said Moen, who played a lawyer in the script.  “I was lost, but William guided me through the events.”
 “Encircled” is a staged reading rather than a play with props and scenery.  A narrator describes the scenes, while actors and actresses read from scripts.  While one performer speaks, the others make little to no movement.  Moen was pleased with the play’s outcome.
    “I think (“Encircled”) turned out very dramatic,” Moen said.  “The black clothes and lack of movement make the concentration on the words and less on the acting.”
    Before any big play is produced, staged readings are scheduled.  Encircled is no exception.  Milledgeville is the first place the script will be performed, but McQuaig hopes he can grab the attention of an Atlanta theatrical company.              Judging by the reactions of those involved, the next level is not out of the question.  Peter Perozzi, a freshman theatre major, was impressed with the script.
    “I loved the concept of the script,” said Perozzi, a leading character.  “It questions many things, such as religion and faith, while still reaffirming them.  William saw a boundary between film and theatre and tries to blur the differences between the two.”
    Ryan Smith directed the staged reading of “Encircled” and comprised a general analysis of how audience members have reacted thus far.
    “The show has been one of the odd balls, viewed often as weird,” said Smith, a sophomore theatre major.  “But everyone who has come to see a reading has left enthralled.”
    The show will go on at 8 p.m. tonight and tomorrow in Russell Auditorium.  General admission is $6 and $3 for GCSU students.  After the performance Saturday there will be a talk back for anyone who wishes to discuss the play. 
    McQuaig wishes for all who attend to come in with an open mind and enjoy the show.

Posted by Colonnade Archives on Apr 13 2007. Filed under Features. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry