Senior directors dazzle in student productions

When seniors Jay Lee and David Mandel first started directing the recent student productions “The Complete Works of Shakespeare (Abridged)” and “Black Comedy,” they never imagined the tough job in store for them.

“Directing has been an amazing experience because I was not only able to interact with the actors, but I was able to create a product from my own vision,” said Mandell. “This was a completely different experience for me because I was on the other side of the table; I have a significantly altered perception on how difficult the craft of directing is.”

Mandell has been involved in the drama department since his freshman year and has participated in countless productions, but never as a director.

“The hardest part about directing is bringing everything required in the show together; the actors, the tech, the lighting, the set, all has to accumulate into one clear vision.”

“The show was a great opportunity for me, as I was a sophomore working with three very experienced actors,” said sophomore Sasan Saadat. “Having Jay Lee as my director made me feel extremely lucky because he helped me discover my own style of acting.”

“The Complete Works of Shakespeare (Abridged)” is a show performed by three amateur actors performing their renditions (and often parodies) of Shakespeare’s work. “Black Comedy” is a 1960s British comedy that takes place in a blackout. The productions were held in the Little Theatre March 31 and April 1.

“Collaborating with the actors to compromise on an agreed vision was one of the most rewarding parts of directing,” said Lee. Lee directed “The Complete Works of Shakespeare (Abridged).”

“I personally prefer performing to being a director because it carries less responsibility,” said Lee.

Saadat expanded on how both Mandel and Lee contributed to making his acting debut more meaningful.

“I really couldn’t have asked for anyone better to work alongside,” said Saadat. “Jae and David have both exemplified the dedication it takes to be an effective actor, and their influence will definitely be missed next year.”

The audiences at both of these shows warmed up to the idea of having student directors.

“I thought The Complete Works of Shakespeare (Abridged) was one of the funniest shows I had ever seen,” said junior Annie Barco. “I was cracking up so much that I was embarrassed. They did a great job and I’m glad that students directed it because they have a good feel as to what students think is funny.”