Thirteen students had the opportunity to work with a professional theatre troupe on Tuesday Oct. 29 at the Stauffer Lounge in the Fort Hays State University Memorial Union.

The participatory master class taught by Aquila Theatre explored some of the vocal and movement acting techniques used in rehearsal and performance.

“The master class was an interactive, fast and energetic introduction to acting,” Hays High choral instructor Johnny Matlock said.

Aquila Theatre is a non-profit company founded in London in 1991 by Peter Meineck. It had been based in New York City since 1999. Aquila’s mission is to bring the greatest theatrical works to the greatest number. Aquila presents a regular season of plays in New York, at international festivals, and tours to approximately seventy American towns and cities each year.

The Aquila Theatre came to Hays to put on the production “Fahrenheit 451” and the Hays Art Council arranged for them to work with Hays High students who were interested in theatre.

“Well the whole acting class was a great experience and something everyone in musical and spring play should do,” junior Conrad Hoffman said. “Overall it was fun and I know it will help with all of our acting in general.”

Senior Raeanna Peacock also enjoyed the experience.

“I thought it was a lot fun and it opened up my mind for acting and helped me get into my character,” Peacock said.

Students who participated include: Nick Overbey, Raeanna Peacock, Samantha Rohleder, Conrad Hoffman, Megan Zeman, Shelby Matlock, Molly Barnett, Jacob Balzer, Max Befort, Andrew McGinnis, Rachel Muirhead, Amy Jordan and Brandon Davidson.

16szhang@usd489.com