Reavis Theatre

Official page of Reavis Theatre.

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Drama State Champions 2016!

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All Sectional Lighting Recipient: Ailis Vaughn

”I received the award for all sectional lighting and I feel pretty frickin’ great about that. I honestly didn't think I was going to get it, so when I did, I almost cried-- I was so happy. The only real thing I want to do better is fix some of the cues I don't make on time, and my fading. I'm proud of myself and Christopher along with all of the other Reavis CRAST members.”

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From January to March: Contest Play Dominates!

“Is this house forever cursed? Shall there be killing after killing forever?”

This year’s Drama entry for Reavis’s 2015-2016 competition season is Electra. It’s crew consists of Thomas Witting and Erika Banick (Directors), along with Michelle Host (Costumes), Dennis Anastasopoulos (Tech Director) and Joseph Illichman (Special Effects). A greek tragedy that has been adapted on numerous occasions still holds true to its main message: the cycle of revenge, and the question of, “did you really get what you wanted?”

We sat down with the directors to get a better understanding behind some interesting details of the show.

Costume choices are definitely interesting--what exactly inspired those choices? Was it Michelle Host's idea? Who made the costumes?

“We came to Ms. Host with a vision of a survivalist, dystopian theme.  We said, ‘Think Hunger Games.’  We showed her the images that inspired our set design.  She, in turn, sent us photos of the kinds of things she was thinking about for the characters.  We loved her photos and gave her the go-ahead to start building the costumes.  She did EVERYTHING.  She shopped for the basics, pulled some stuff from Reavis, and she modified the garments in a variety of ways to achieve the look they have now.”

What was it like seeing the set for the first time in person? Do certain colors foreshadow moments in the show? What is your favorite set piece and why? Which one was most difficult to do any blocking on, if any?

“Well, remember that we saw it come together each week—so there was no real ‘first time.’ However, seeing it on the stage for competition is very satisfying and moving. It’s a powerful set.  We are proud of it.  We do use red lighting for certain moments in order to intensify the mood—namely, when Electra’s desire for revenge swells.  I would say our favorite set pieces are the faux metal beams and the ramp.  They look terrific.  The ladder is a bit of a struggle and a little awkward at times for the actors, but they manage.”

What were some factors kept in mind when casting the show? Who has taken the most leaps? Recount a moment when an actor took a huge risk.

“For this show, we needed people with rich vocals.  The piece calls for it, with its extended monologues.  ALL of the actors have grown so, so much.  We are insanely proud of them.  I can’t help but mention Teresa Estrada; it is her first lead role, and it’s a brutal one for a 16 year old girl to pull off. She has done it with grace.  She has worked extremely hard.”  

What pieces of the script do you wish you could perform (that had to be cut)?

“ACTUALLY, this is one of the easiest plays we’ve ever cut.  We did not have to take out any characters or whole scenes.”

How is this year similar to last year's show? How is it different? What is your #1 goal going into State finals and why?

Both shows are rooted in history, which is pretty cool.  Ultimately, they are both heartbreaking in their own ways.  Overall, though, the shows are very different.  Last year’s was lovely; it was subtle, charming, and intellectual.  This year’s is strikingly powerful in its presentation, and it focuses on gut-level, base urges that define us.  It’s epic in its scope—both in that it comes from Ancient Greece and that our vision for the show focuses on the endless cycle of revenge and how that has manifested itself in all countries throughout the ages.  The goal for State is ALWAYS the same: to grow as much as possible over the week and to arrive in Springfield ready to tell an important story and leave it all on the stage in the Purple Rain.    

As directors, where do you feel you've excelled the most? Is there anything you have personally improved on throughout the process?

“Well, there are a lot of things we’ve learned over the years, and that’s what makes us good.  Of course, there is still a lot for us to learn.  We excel at effective collaboration.  We depend on one another’s strengths, and we work in tandem to accomplish a variety of things.  I think what makes us stand out is that we focus on theatre education.  Our goal is to teach our cast members what they need to know in order to be successful in any show.  We use a variety of lessons and exercises at different times in the process to help our students. Over the past 16 years, we have fine-tuned our process and become a fairly well-oiled machine.”

Current Awards: Superior ranking at the SSC Conference Festival with a Techcellence for Large Set Award, and Sectional Champions! Cast and Crew will be down at the University of Illinois @ Springfield competing this upcoming weekend!

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Believe it or not

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Merry CRASTmas to All!

For those unfamiliar with the Reavis Theatre’s tradition of CRASTmas, it is simply a wonderful and festive time. The Company of Reavis Actors and Stage Technicians, or Crast, celebrates the end of the semester with a holiday party! The tradition originally began many, many seasons ago and even though some things might have changed, the spirit of being together as a “happy family” still stands strong. The night began with our large group hiding grab bag gifts around the house. (You’ll see what we do that for soon.) Everyone got a lot of delicious food to fill them up, too!  There were many group holiday themed games to play with everyone-- from trying to keep a snowflake from falling, to seeing which group could wrap one of their team members the fastest! Even an intense Wii tennis battle against Mr. A (who was undefeated the whole night…) was amongst many activities there. One of the CRASTmas traditions involves our grab bag. Everyone finds a present hidden around the house and meets to sit in a large circle. Mr. A reads, “Twas the night before Crastmas”, a funny themed story involving different members of the club. Whenever a girl’s name was said, everyone would pass their gifts to the left, and boys to the right. Then we finally opened our gifts and began playing them as the night wound down. Full of laughs and memories, Crastmas 2015 was a success!

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New Faces in Reavis Theatre: Elise Suryzn

“My first thought when I got cast was, ‘Wow, I can't believe I actually made it!’  I had always thought the acting was fun and interesting, so when I finally got the chance to do theatre, I decided to take it.  As far as upperclassmen go, I really look up to Faith, because she always puts so much energy into her performances.

Shrek has made me really excited for future performances, and I already can't wait to audition for contest season.”

Going in the right direction, I went ahead and asked Elise as to where she saw herself three years from now, and I was pleasantly surprised.

“I hope that three years from now, I will have a lead in one of our shows. I also strive to make everyone feel as accomplished and included as I do.”

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Kim Pinson: Brick After Brick

Reflective of her work on Shrek, Kim answered some daring questions; we hope you gain insight on the life of a crewbie!

  “I’m excited to look at all the work we did once again, but knowing it’s the last time I’ll catch myself listening to mlifeusical songs o n youtube is saddening. Being a spotlight for Shrek was absolutely 100% my favorite project on  Shrek (although all the detail painting was fun, too). I'm honestly shocked on how far the newbies have come. I remember it took me two years to be able to build a platform without help. They've done well-- but there's always room for improvement. I remember my first year in drama, sophomore year, and working on

   There are ALWAYS  more things I want to do and  it’s sad because I don’t have much time left here. However, I do feel that I have accomplished my goals in being    well rounded in this club. I did crew for three shows where I worked the fly rail, was a prop girl, and even worked on construction too. Other than crew, I fell in love with assistant directing two contest plays that made it to state! There is always something new to challenge me and I like looking for those challenges.

Tech week was a lot to handle, but quite fun.  Tech week is where I drink water like crazy. I kept at least a twelve water bottle stache behind Abuela’s stoop last year. As for preparing for contest season, just go all out during auditions. When you are confident, you stand out. Just be you and if you aren’t cast this year, then do crew! Crew for contest season was so much fun my freshmen year!

   Have a constant thirst for bettering yourself after each performance or rehearsal. “Give your 100% because 99% is failing.” If you are not always cast in the roles you hoped for, don’t feel bad about yourself or blame others. Take what you have gotten and make it your own. Do crew, be open to being a vocal/dance captain, and or assistant direct a show. Do as much as you can because it allows you to not rely on others so much. Once shy and quiet, I never thought I would actually be the lead of a show. These four years have not only given me confidence in myself and abilities, but I have found to be finally comfortable with myself. For me, the best advice I can give is: always push yourself, be kind/respect others, and be perfect, little you.”              

                  Hairspray. Mr. A chose me to control the scoreboard, which meant I had to go out on stage in behind it while go to for advice, a friend, or help with anything.hundreds of of people watched. I was terrified! But, I learned that moving that tiny lever was just as important as Tracy, (aka Lisa), knowing all of her lines. I cannot wait for the real fun to begin.... contest season brings challenges; I’m ready to face them head on.”

Ending on a positive note, Kim states, “my advice to crewbies is that:  yes it will get hard, yes, you will get yelled at, and yes, you will want to quit... DON'T! Just push through and I promise it will be worth it. If there ever comes a time where you just can't take it, come and find me (and I’m sure anyone else) and we will figure it out together--promise. I love each and every single one of you!”

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Congratulations to those competing on behalf of Reavis Theatre

 in the 2015-2016 IHSA Competition Season!

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From Chorus to Fiona

“There are no small parts...just small people.” 

Caitlin Ruehle

   “When I was a little freshmen, a senior gave me the knowledge of understanding "there's no such thing as small parts...just small people." Sure, I would audition for different parts, but I never really cared about striving for those roles. I just wanted the drama season to start up because I knew no matter what I did in the club, I would have the best time; lead or not. I still cannot believe we have the opportunity of doing one of my favorite shows, so being able to say that, AND to say I will be playing Fiona is honestly amazing!

   My first real principle role was Abuela Claudia from In The Heights. Here is me, an Irish Italian teenage girl, portraying a spanish speaking elderly woman. It was a big challenge for me, but Abuela landed a special place in my heart for that show. My freshmen and sophomore years consisted of being a part of the chorus, but I would not trade those experiences for anything. Every single part (from chorus to Fiona) was a constant learning experience that made me want to propel myself forward each time.

Becoming a thespian was something I knew I was going to do. I was inspired by many hardworking students that truly cared for the well being of this club, and I wanted to do the same. I wanted to be that senior who didn't make freshmen feel like freshmen, but instantly a part of this family. Personally, I love being known as a senior leader that the newbies can go to.       

There are ALWAYS  more things I want to do and  it’s sad because I don’t have much time left here. However, I do feel that I have accomplished my goals in being    well rounded in this club. I did crew for three shows where I worked the fly rail, was a prop girl, and even worked on construction too. Other than crew, I fell in love with assistant directing two contest plays that made it to state! There is always something new to challenge me and I like looking for those challenges.

Tech week was a lot to handle, but quite fun.  Tech week is where I drink water like crazy. I kept at least a twelve water bottle stache behind Abuela’s stoop last year. As for preparing for contest season, just go all out during auditions. When you are confident, you stand out. Just be you and if you aren’t cast this year, then do crew! Crew for contest season was so much fun my freshmen year!

On a final note, have a constant thirst for bettering yourself after each performance or rehearsal. “Give your 100%, because 99% is failing.” If you are not always cast in the roles you hoped for, don’t feel bad about yourself or blame others. Take what you have gotten and make it your own. Do crew, be open to being a vocal/dance captain, and or assistant direct a show. Do as much as you can because it allows you to not rely on others so much. Once shy and quiet, I never thought I would actually be the lead of a show. These four years have not only given me confidence in myself and abilities, but I have found to be finally comfortable with myself. For me, the best advice I can give is: always push yourself, be kind/respect others, and be perfect, little you.”