STCC Theatre Workshop presents ‘Exit Strategy’ in December

STCC students act in 'Exit Strategy' which runs Dec. 7, 8 and 9 at Scibelli Hall Theater.

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Springfield Technical Community College’s Theatre Workshop returns in December with three performances of the play “Exit Strategy,” a story about a fictional high school slated for closure at the end of the year.

Assistant professor Phil O’Donoghue, who directs the play featuring STCC students, said he is thrilled to bring “Exit Strategy” to the theater in Scibelli Hall at STCC. Ike Holter has emerged as one of America’s leading playwrights. There have been 26 professional productions of his play.

“It has become a staple of college theater,” O’Donoghue said. “I know the language, themes, and messages will resonate with our students and community. We have a wonderful group of young actors who are deeply committed to the show.”

Students who contributed to the production include those from the STCC Architecture and Building Technology Program. They built the set, which was designed by student Elizabeth Bess.

“All the ingredients are there for a memorable theatrical experience,” O’Donoghue said.

Assistant Professor Jennifer DeForge said,  "I'm thrilled that students in the Architecture and Building Technology Program have an opportunity to help the College Theatre Workshop with designing and building the set. It's another example of how STCC programs offer hands-on experience to our students."

All the ingredients are there for a memorable theatrical experience. Phil O'Donoghue, Director of 'Exit Strategy'd

While STCC is known for its technical programs, the college offers robust liberal arts programs and courses including acting and a theater workshop.

“Theater education helps develop communication skills and can improve students’ self-esteem and self-confidence,” said Dr. Christopher Thuot, Vice President of Academic Affairs. “The College Theater Workshop welcomes students from all academic disciplines and presents a wonderful opportunity for students to have fun while learning.”

Set in Chicago, “Exit Strategy” focuses on a small, multiracial group of teachers who launch a last-minute effort to save their high school despite funding cuts, bureaucrats run amok, and apathy. The teachers put their careers, futures and safety in the hands of a fast-talking administrator who may be in over his head. The tenuous situation also raises fears and anxieties among students, and within the volcanic neighborhood that is home to the school.

The “Chicago Tribune” wrote, “At once poetic, political, sad, funny, timely, complex and compassionate.”

WHEN:

  • Thursday, Dec. 7, 11 a.m.
  • Friday, Dec. 8, 7 p.m.
  • Saturday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m.

WHERE:

  • STCC, Scibelli Hall, Theater

TICKET PRICES:

  • Free, but donations are gratefully accepted

Interested in applying to STCC? Visit stcc.edu/apply or call Admissions at (413) 755-3333.

About Springfield Technical Community College

STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jim Danko, jdanko@stcc.edu, (413) 755-4812