The Moorpark College’s Theater Arts Department wraps up another outstanding semester filled with some dramatic and hilarious moments.

This semester, students involved in the theater program were hard at work putting on several amazing productions all semester long such as “Hairspray” and the “Student One Acts.” Improv students also got the chance to participate in “Club M Improv: Atomic Comedy.”

Nicole Baffone, 20-year-old technical theater arts major, has always been a fan of the theater. She first got the chance to work on the technical side in middle school and loved it. From then on, she knew she wanted pursue the technical side of theater, said Baffone.

Baffone was astonished that not many people know that one can pursue a career on the technical side of theater.

“When I worked on a show in high school, people were confused and were like, ‘that is a thing?'” said Baffone.

Baffone got the chance to work on shows like “Hairspray,” the “Student One Acts,” and “Motion Flux” in addition to working on the sets and working the sound board.

“‘Hairspray’ because it was a really big production,” said Baffone. I made some really amazing friends in additions to learning so much.”

Much like Baffone, 18-year-old business major Adrina Deem got a chance to participate as a make-up artist on the “Student One Acts” and “Hairspray.” Although she had never worked on such large productions, Deem said she was excited to take part in new adventures.

“The experiences were truly life changing,” said Deem. “I got to express myself and learn what it is like to be a part of a theater family. Everyone handles themselves so professionally. I got to put my opinions out there and learn how between lighting, set changes, acting, makeup, and watching it all come together and become a beautiful production,” said Deem.

Deem is looking forward working on “Night of the Living Dead” this upcoming fall semester.

“Zombie makeup is always fun,” said Deem. “It’s going to be a blast. I can’t wait.”

This was the first time Jordan Oss, 19-year-old theater arts major, took on the role of make-up supervisor for the “Student One Acts.” Oss is also excited to continue taking part in the grand productions the Theater Arts Department puts together.

“I was super excited,” said Oss. “I love being involved in any way I can. Knowing I was part of productions like “Hairspray” and knowing I was part of making them great made me really proud. Both my theater tech and make-up courses have both pushed me to be more involved and work towards my career.”

Moorpark College’s Theater Arts Department offers real-life experience where the teachers take initiative to get you involved and help students discover their love for theater, according to Baffone.

“I would definitely recommend if you are interested in any aspect of theater, I would get involved now,” said Baffone. “There are great real life experience opportunities available here on campus.”