The entirely student written, directed and acted One Acts came to life May 1, and will be running until May 11, with two free matinees falling on May 1 and 8 at 1:30 p.m.

These original “black-box” productions as they are called are split into two bills, Bill A and Bill B, providing many challenging tasks and learning experiences as Facilitator and Professor Kathy Lewis says.

“The acting and singing in both bills of the one acts this semester is very challenging. I think everyone does absolutely the very best job they can, said Lewis. “This is college. Everyone is learning”

Dealing with trivial issues of life, self-worth, love, fear, acceptance, the pursuit of happiness, choice, direction and many others, individually each bill lasted a little over two and a half hours, bringing both excitement and praise from the audience.

Kellie Kowalick, supporting mother of Katelyn Kowalick, came to see her daughter perform in two of the five shows in Bill A.

“She has done a lot of improv here before, but this is the first time she is doing this,” said Kowalick. “I am excited to see her.”

Some shows like “Opening Night,” had only a few, long scenes, where as shows like “Disintegrating Mind-Part 2” or “It Belongs in a Museum,” had a longer series of shorter scenes.

Each show had its own individual setting and costumes that brought the storyline to life, driving the powerful message home.

Particularly of note was the setting and costume design of “Absolute Pin,” a story depicting life as a board game.

For “Absolute Pin,” what was really unique was that the cast entirely brought a game of chess to life. The pawns, castle, and horse all wore sweaters with their chess piece on them, also carrying out specified personas and movements we may think that piece would have.

The shows writer, Joe Silva, thanks his cast for carrying out his ideas.

“I brought the paper, Jared and the cast brought it to life,” said Silva.

In all the shows, there was a huge mix of talent, ranging from lighting and costume design to acting, directing and the actual writing of the shows. Some writer/directors were first-timers, while others were returning to take on a heavier load.

Grace Liner, writer, director, and all-around designer, of “Disintegrating Mind-Part 2” took on a great deal more this time, helping with most aspects of the show in one way or another. 

Some fresh talent finally had the chance to be showcased, which was the situation for Peter Mazzeo, writer and director of ‘The Final Spoiler,” a drama dealing with the heavy theme of life, what the meaning is, and the mystery is all worth it.

“When I first started this, I tried to blend the line between comedy and drama,” said Mazzeo. “It has been very exciting.”

“The Final Spoiler” had a wonderful, powerful storyline and very talented acting.

Especially of note is Tadeh Kennedy, 19, English major, who played the part of Mortimer.

Kennedy captivated the necessary emotions while still bringing some humor forward. He has been happy to be a part of this production and department.

“The energy that everyone has in the department is very exciting and inspiring. The teachers are incredibly helpful and involved,” said Kennedy.

Many different types of artists are needed for the one acts.

Emily Hucal, floor manager for Bill B, says that this is her first time working with the one acts and that it has been enjoyable.

“It’s a lot easier to manager the One Acts compared to main stage. I pre set most of the show and stage by myself,” said Hucal, who also played herself in “Opening Night”. “Being a tech is obviously super meta (meta theatre) and I love it.”

Seta Wainiqolo, 22, theatre major, was a huge fan of both the acting and the writing present in the shows.

“I felt the actors really committed to their roles, which enhanced the quality of the performance as a whole and I thought the writing for all the plays was both thought provoking and very intriguing,” said Wainiqolo.

For those looking to write or submit future One Acts, Lewis has some advice.

“The description of what sort of play is desirable depends upon the taste of the faculty member who is producing and facilitating the show. What I personally look for are plays that are original in content and/or style,” said Lewis.

You can email her at [email protected].

Bill A has two shows left on May 8 and 10 at 7:30 p.m.

Bill B has three shows left on May 8 at 1:30 p.m. (free show) and May 9 and 11 at 7:30 p.m.

Purchasing tickets can be done online at www.MoorparkCollege.edu/PAC or you can contact the box office at (805)-378-1485.