The theater arts program kicks off its 2015 Student One Acts performances this December at Moorpark College.

Among the eight student written, produced and directed scripts there are a diverse mix of romance, drama, comedy and thought provoking depth. The Theater Arts Department Chair John Loprieno said the students are working hard and that tech rehearsals are about to begin.

“I’m going around from show to show,” said Loprieno. “Making sure that everything is up to speed and that they’re ready to step into the tech process.”

Some plays, like “Comedy of Eros” and “To Each Her Own” have more romantic themes while others like “Keep Your Eyes Peeled” are more drama focused. There’s even a one woman show titled “Soldier,” a true story following the experiences of a young woman in the Israeli Army.

Another, “Crows,” follows an interracial couple Tim and Tia, played by college students Ryan Palmer and Angela Morgan, and their struggle during the 1960s’ Civil Rights Movement. While Tia goes off to ride with the freedom riders, Tim, worried for her safety, goes after her and at the bus stop where the freedom riders will stop, encounters some interesting people.

An intense drama about the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, this play is filled with powerful scenes, scenes that 19-year-old director and actor Remy Mulloway, a theater arts major said is sure to make the audience think.

“It’s definitely more graphic language that people are used to,” said Mulloway. “Because of the words they use against the freedom riders.”

Mulloway also has a part in the play as Jack, one of the men Tim meets at the bus stop, a character he says believes in non-violence. Mulloway made a strong correlation to this play and recent events going on and believes the message will stand clear in the play.

“They can’t be stopped unless we really take a stand against it,” said Mulloway. “I think that’s really going to come off.”

Another play, “Up The Hill” takes place in a familiar setting at the Ronald Reagan Library where a father with Alzheimers is being looked for. “Professional” on the other hand brings a Shakespearean twist to the modern day workplace.

Finally, “Lucas,” a play about a boy named Lucas, who although deceased can communicate to his brother’s, Adam, college roommate, Ben. The cast includes Lucas, played by 19-year-old multimedia business and game design major Noah Snair, Ben, the college roommate portrayed by Nick Castro, 18, theater arts major, and Lucas’ brother Adam, played by 22-year-old English major Justin Velasco.

Director and gender studies major McColley Wilk, 21, said this is their first serious directing project, but they have worked on things before.

“I co-directed a one act and I also adapted and directed a YouTube video into a short play,” said Wilk.

Despite a small cast, this play is sure to evoke plenty of emotion.

“The audience can expect to be moved, and hopefully laugh too,” said Wilk.

There is something for everyone and an opportunity to connect with characters and students in theater arts.

“We’ve got some characters dealing with emotional issues, relationship issues,” said Loprieno. “It’s always fun to see how that manifests itself in all the different plays.”

Bill A of the plays consists of “Crows,” “Lucas,” “Professional” and “Up The Hill,” which premiere Dec. 3, 5, 9 and 11 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 2 at 1:30 p.m. Bill B will show “Soldier,” “To Each Her Own,” “Keep Your Eyes Peeled” and “Comedy Of Eros,” which will premiere Dec. 2, 4, 10,12 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 9 at 1:30 p.m.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for students, seniors, children and staff. For more information or to purchase tickets online please visit www.moorparkcollege.edu/PAC.