Students write, act and perform within 24 hours
The BYUH Auditorium was filled with excitement as friends and families gathered to support the students' 24-hour project. Kristl Densley, an assistant professor in the Faculty of Culture, Language & Performing Arts, led the way for a creative showcase on stage.
Terrell Wu, a Malaysian alumnus with a major in Communication, Media and Culture, explained the goal of the 24-hour theater project was for students to collaborate in different groups. "Within the time constraints, everyone took on different roles such as directing, playwriting, acting, sound and lighting and set and prop preparation, resulting in eight plays and musical performances." According to Wu, each play lasted 10 minutes.
As the playwright for "Kimchi Chips," Wu shared he faced challenges in assembling the play and ensuring the story made sense. “The team spent about four hours writing the play, then staging it, directing actors, and dealing with technical aspects like lights, props, sets, and costumes,” said Wu.
He stated he was stressed, but that "it all worked out in the end." Wu said he was amazed by the diverse talent showcased in other plays, including themes like the mafia, Harry Potter, horror, and musicals. "If you have the opportunity, take it. It may be difficult at first, but everything will work out if everyone works together and encourages one another," he said.
Reflecting on his own experience, Wu encouraged others to seize such opportunities, even if they appear difficult at first. He emphasized the importance of teamwork and mutual support in making everything work out. Wu expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to express his creativity and thanked BYUH Theatre for nurturing his passion and providing a platform for acting and theatrical experiences.
Aliah Flores, a freshman majoring in psychology from the Philippines who participated in the 24-hour project, said, "It's overwhelming because it's something new as I'm minoring in theater.” She added she and others who participated in the event faced many challenges. “It tested our limits, but in the end, it brought out the creativity we never thought we had,” said Flores.
"Within 24 hours, we were able to successfully write, act, and perform our play," she said. Flores added she felt accomplished and that everyone involved put in a lot of effort and teamwork. "Everyone has a story to tell, and this is a great opportunity to share something from our backgrounds and cultures," she said. Flores emphasized the importance of teamwork and confidence in their success.
Liahona Andaca, a senior majoring in psychology from the Philippines who participated alongside Flores, said, “It took a lot of teamwork, innovation, and creativity from each member to make this project happen.” She added while working together, they were able to form meaningful connections with other members.
"At the end of the day, what matters more is teamwork and having fun," Andaca explained. "I learned from this project the importance of trying something new and fully immersing myself in the experience because it will be a waste of opportunities if we don't take them," Andaca continued.
Netty Shin, a senior majoring in peacebuilding from New York, was among the students who witnessed the event. She said, “The plays were so exciting and entertaining. Everyone did an outstanding job." She added = it was exciting to see so many of her friends perform and the variety of plays she saw made her night.
Shin stated the plot is her favorite part of the play. "The plays surprised me with unexpected plots and were entertaining and fun," she said. "There's so much talent," Shin continued, "and I love that there's a project like this where students can really express themselves and showcase their talents." I’m grateful we have a department like this in BYUH because I want to see more.”
Ann Goebel, a sophomore majoring in political science from Las Vegas, said, “I am really impressed that the students were able to make various plays in 24 hours.” Goebel expressed her gratitude for witnessing such incredible talent and performances. "Props to everyone who wrote, directed, worked backstage, and performed because it was a job well done, and I thoroughly enjoyed it," said Goebel.
The auditorium was filled with thunderous applause and standing ovations as the final act ended at 9:30 p.m. The performers and everyone else who took part took their bows as the audience continued to applaud.