The ETSU Department of Theatre and Dance’s production of Jack and the Beanstalk featured an interactive telling of the story, so we had a GIANT favor to ask of our audience at each show. They got to stomp, clap, and even YELL (when prompted, of course!). The performers loved having the audience join in on the fun, and it was such an enjoyable opportunity for us to take part in the wonder of this magical fairy tale.
Not only did I get to direct and choreograph the production, I also wrote a pre-show act, “Fairy Tale Minute,” which involved inviting an audience member on to the stage to spin a wheel with a number of beloved fairy tales listed. Wherever the wheel stopped, the performers had 1 minute to perform the fairy tale at lightning-fast speed.
I also added a post-show, “Dance Battle,” which incorporated a variety of high energy dance styles. Chickens were battling Beans, and Geese and were dancing it out with Milky White, the cow. From tap dance to hip hop, these performers did it all! I don't think I stopped smiling throughout the entire performance.
The production featured the collaboration of 21 student actors, numerous crew members, production designers, Professor Melissa Shafer (lighting), Beth Skinner (costumes), Professor Jonathon Taylor (scenic design), Zach Olsen (technical director), and Professor Karen Brewster (producer).
Photo Credit: ETSU Photographic Services