Everyone has wanted to act at some point in his or her life, and performing has never been easier than at Washington University’s Performing Arts Department. This year, the department offers five shows first semester, including one of Shakespeare’s classics and a 1940′s style musical.

The season begins with “The 1940′s Radio Hour” by Walton Jones on the weekends of October 5 and October 12. This musical showcases a 1940′s radio show, complete with commercials.

According to Jeffery Matthews, theater director, “The cool thing.is all that life going on and all these relationships between the people on stage and it’s never spoken.”

Next, “Measure for Measure,” the Shakespearean “problem play” explores the relationship between justice and mercy. It also explores sexuality, with the action of the play set off by pre-marital sex. This show opens on the weekend of November 9, also running the weekend of November 16.

“I like to think that we’re very welcoming to everybody,” said Matthews. “[The Theater Department is] active and vibrant and a part of everyone’s life whether as an audience member, backstage or onstage.”

Those participating in the shows usually practice for about five to six weeks prior to a show. The practices run for about three hours a night, five nights a week according to Matthews.

“It’s very do-able with an academic schedule,” said Matthews.

The first step to becoming a thespian is obviously auditioning. That can be intimidating, and the theater department realizes this. The directors know that the students are putting themselves “out there” in a very different way, and they respect that, says Matthews.

Auditions to be a part of these performances or the second semester shows-”The Trestle at Pope Lick Creek,” “She Stoops to Conquer” or “The Lion and the Jewel”-take place August 30 and 31 in Olin I in the Women’s building.

All are encouraged to “dip there toes in.” According to Jeffery Matthews, no one should feel excluded or “typed out.”

The department is looking for a diverse group of students and the only requirement is talent.

Future stars need to come prepared, however. A monologue is required, as are 16 bars of a 1930s or 1940s song for the musical.

“Measure for Measure” requires a separate monologue, but aside from the Shakespeare play and the musical, students can try out for all the other plays with just one monologue. Actors-in-training can choose their own monologue, or they can pick up an already chosen piece outside the Performing Arts Department office at 312 Mallinckrodt.

Make sure to pick up and fill out the audition forms, too, and be ready to see the University’s stars shine.

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