Students have ample opportunities to perform on stage or help behind the scenes at Hesston College. The theatre department produces four shows each school year in addition to several other performance venues that arise including chapels, worship services, special college functions, and miscellaneous community events.
We produce a drama in the fall, usually around the end of September or beginning of October giving students the chance to get involved right away. Thanksgiving at Hesston College is a big weekend and the drama department has traditionally been a part of this as well. In the recent past we have offered a musical revue of a lighter nature which has translated to a great deal of fun for both cast and audiences. For Thanksgiving 2007 we will offer Amahl and the Night Visitors featuring Hesston alumna Tami Jantzi as our special guest artist.
In spring semester we offer a winter musical or comedy on alternate years. This is followed with student-directed one acts over commencement weekend. These one acts feature one to two students in the directing class taking the position of the director for a smaller but full production. Students involved in this show get the unique aspect of working with one of their peers as well as faculty designers who assist with translating the director's vision to the stage.
Finally, because Hesston is a smaller school, opportunities abound for additional performance experiences. Students with special interests (i.e. improv, dance, mime, church drama) are encouraged and supported in their endeavors.