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Solo student learns to direct

Written by: Alex Tostado

Dennis May is in a class of his own. Literally.

The senior theater performance major is the only student in his directed studies course taught by Dr. Jimmy Bickerstaff. May will direct a one-act play by Eugene O’Neil titled “Where the Cross Is Made.”

“Where the Cross Is Made” will show on Dec. 2 and 3 in the Lab Theater in the Fine Arts Building. The show is free and open to the public.

“I came across ‘Where the Cross Is Made,’ and I read it once and liked it,” May said.

May did not hold auditions, but he accepted volunteers. 

“I don’t regret choosing this play, and I don’t regret casting who I cast,” May said. “They are all bringing something different than what I envisioned.”              

During his sophomore year, May had his first experience with directing while in his beginner’s directing course.

 Upon meeting Dr. Bickerstaff, I had no idea he would ultimately be my mentor,” May said.

Dr. Bickerstaff has put a lot of trust and commitment into May and is pleased with his passion for directing.

“Early on, May expressed a desire to pursue directing,” Dr. Bickerstaff said. “Directing is my first love. If someone shows an interest in it, then I’m going to encourage them and try to help them.”

While May felt content with acting, the Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College transfer student found a new love for directing.

“Directing lit a flame in me that I did not know I had,” May said. “I wouldn’t say that it’s bigger than acting, but it’s definitely huge.”

May will co-direct a play titled “Arcadia” in the spring with Dr. Bickerstaff.

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