The theatre department has been working to create new experiences and ways to create amidst these unprecedented times. For example, to showcase all the hard work done last year for “The Sound Of Music,” a documentary is being made of the process of preparing the show. This is a way of memorializing the work and talent of the cast and crew while staying safe.
Professor Claire Slavovsky, the show’s director, said, "Dr. Tahere and I strategized all summer to find a way to do a performance this fall after all the hard work the cast and crew put into the show. We thought about outside, socially distanced, streaming, concert staging. But as we got closer to school starting, we realized the logistics just weren't feasible to have such a large group singing and performing together."
Another project happening this semester is the medieval play “Everyman.” This play will be very different from previous years’ performances. Professor Camille Hallstrom will be directing a modified version that will be in film form. By using set pieces from “The Sound Of Music,” film equipment and masks designed to fit with costumes, the theatre department will bring their stage to the screen.
Hallstrom said, “God dropped this play right into my lap.”
No spoilers, but the play seems tailor-made for social distancing and plague-like times. The play is in the public domain, so making a filmed version is legally allowed. The main character spends most of the play facing death and what comes after, and giving an account of his life.
Hallstrom hopes that “Everyman” will be a reminder that life on this earth is not the end of our story. “As Christians, we must keep our eyes on the days ahead after death where we will give our own account. In times like these, where uncertainty is the norm, we can be certain that our Father has prepared a place for us,” she said.
Hallstrom continued with a request: “Students, faculty, staff, alumni and families, we ask that you join us in prayer throughout the year. We know we cannot succeed without the Lord’s guidance and we hope that you will come alongside us and pray that He will continue to guide us through these uncharted waters. Pray for our health and the wisdom we need to protect it.”
Photo Taken by Stephanie Smole
Current production plans are to premiere “Everyman” near the end of this semester, but this is subject to change due to COVID-19. Updates will be posted on the theatre department’s Instagram account (@covenant.college.theatre) and Facebook page.
Throughout this semester, the department is also accepting proposals for short films of any kind via a project application form on the Covenant website. The department will provide the film equipment to bring students’ scripts to life in the spring. Contact Prof. Claire Slavovsky with any questions.