The Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival has notified the Arkansas Tech University Department of Communication and Journalism that the fall production of “Crimes of the Heart” is under consideration for regional recognition.
“Crimes of the Heart,” as performed by Arkansas Tech students Oct. 22-24 at the Techionery Theatre, has been designated as a held production. The notification means that the show may be invited to a regional festival in San Angelo, Texas, in February. Announcement of the invited productions will be made in December.
Dr. Ardith Morris, professor of communication and theatre at Arkansas Tech, served as director for the production. Dr. David Eshelman, associate professor of communication, is director of theatre at Arkansas Tech.
“It is an honor to be considered for the regional festival,” said Eshelman. “It is a testament to the quality of ATU’s students and faculty.”
The play, which was written by Beth Henley, won the 1981 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. It tells the story of three sisters from a dysfunctional family in the southern United States.
“Crimes of the Heart” featured the following performers: Dylan Butterfield of El Dorado, Scarlett Fairclough of Danville, Morgan Lunsford of Rison, Grant Mullins of Clarksville, Skylar Wierman of England and Christina Williams of Cabot. Cheyenne Austin of Clarksville was the understudy.
“I learned to trust my instincts as an actor,” said Wierman while reflecting on the production. “That allowed me to adapt in the moment and create nuances.”
Sawyer Rentfro of Russellville was assistant director, and Stephanie Collins of Bella Vista was stage manager. The costume designer was Chelsea Rawls of Russellville. The set was designed by Jenava Harris, theatre arts technical supervisor at Arkansas Tech.
“I am very proud of all parties concerned in the production,” said Anthony Caton, head of the Arkansas Tech Department of Communication and Journalism and associate professor of journalism. “The feedback I have received from those who attended has been extremely positive.”
Learn more about the Arkansas Tech Department of Communication and Journalism.
