By News Editor Aislinn Cottell
The VIU Theatre Department is hosting their inaugural 24-Hour Playwriting Competition this month, and looking for budding playwrights to compete.
Participation is free, but teams must be confirmed by November 4, and space is limited to the first eight teams who confirm–so hurry and get your friends together if you want to take part in the shenanigans. Whether you’re already interested in acting or writing, or just want to get out and have fun, this event is a great opportunity to meet people and de-stress.
“We’re looking for absolutely anyone with a desire to try something different and fun for a weekend,” said Leon Potter, Chair of the VIU Theatre Department. “We’re hoping for a range of different groups to participate—VIU students and staff, high school students, arts groups or anyone else in the community who’s interested.”
Sign-up requires a group of five people, who will receive an “inspiration box” on November 18 that contains a sound effect, a costume, a quote, and a prop that they must then incorporate into a 15-minute-or-less performance. Teams will have one hour of stage time on Sunday to organize technical elements such as lighting and set cues, and are also permitted to bring in outside actors to perform their piece.
The shows will then be performed at the Malaspina Theatre on Sunday November 20 at 8 pm, where they will be judged by a panel of people from the Nanaimo arts community, and prizes will be awarded.
“Aside from a weekend of your time and a few shreds of dignity, you will find yourselves paid back in some of the greatest memories you could create,” said Potter.
To sign up or for more information, contact Potter at Leon.Potter@viu.ca.
Aislinn is a third year Bachelor of Arts and Science student majoring in creative writing and minoring in chemistry. New to The Nav team this year, she’s enjoying finding out about all the interesting things happening on campus. Her hobbies include reading, drawing, Netflix, and the copious consumption of coffee.