The University of Wisconsin-Superior Theatre Department will spotlight student creativity and leadership with a double-feature of two student-directed productions: Foreplay Or: The Art of the Fugue and 15 Reasons Not To Be in a Play. Performances will be held in the Experimental Lab at 7 p.m. on November 21 and 22, and at 2 p.m. on November 23.

“At UWS Theatre, we are committed to providing meaningful opportunities for students to grow as artists – learning, experimenting and developing the skills that make them self-generative creators,” said Sean Naughton, producing artistic director for University Theatre. “These plays have been imagined, cast, rehearsed and brought to life by student directors working alongside fellow student actors, stage managers, technicians and designers.”

A Playful Take on Love and Time

Jon Pearson, a theatre and digital media major with a communication minor, will direct Foreplay Or: The Art of the Fugue by David Ives.

“In Foreplay Or: The Art of the Fugue, we meet Chuck, a self-styled Don Juan, and his date at a miniature golf course,” explained Naughton. “When they move to the next hole, an older version – Chuck II – appears with a different date. Finally, Chuck III, now in his late thirties, arrives with yet another date. His latest companion doesn’t get his jokes – and to make matters worse, she’s beating him at golf.”

Comedy About Not Doing Theatre – By Doing Theatre

The second production, 15 Reasons Not To Be in a Play by Alan Haehnel, will be directed by Hannah Siedlecki, a theatre and digital arts major with a writing minor.

“15 Reasons Not To Be in a Play is a hilarious and ironic look at the reasons people avoid being in plays – told through a rapid-fire series of monologues, duets, and ensemble scenes,” said Naughton. “From childhood theatre traumas involving overzealous teachers to unexpected global catastrophes, this play keeps audiences guessing what absurd situation will unfold next.”

Learning by Leading

For UWS students, the new Theatre Lab Series offers a unique chance to test and refine their skills as directors.

“Directing is far more than giving stage directions – it’s about creating a space for collaboration, listening to what the play needs, embracing limitations, and guiding the ensemble toward a shared vision,” said Naughton. “Before the curtain even rises, these directors have accomplished something remarkable: they’ve planned, rehearsed and led their peers to create original work born from their own creativity and dedication. The lessons they’ve learned in this process will no doubt shape them into the artistic leaders of tomorrow.”

Tickets for the double-feature are $5 and can be purchased at the Holden Fine Arts Center box office or online. Reservations are available by calling (715) 394-8369. The Experimental Lab is located in the Holden Fine Arts Center, 1805 Catlin Avenue, Superior.