In this week’s episode of "What's Happenin' QC," host Marc Zyla brings a captivating conversation to the Quad City community as he welcomes Emma Watts, a senior director at Augustana College. Get ready to dive into the dynamic world of theater as Emma shares her journey in directing her first production, the dark comedy "Exit Pursued by a Bear," set to take the stage at the Honkamp Myhre Black Box Theatre from April 10th to 13th.
Join Marc and Emma as they explore the quirky and thought-provoking narrative of this revenge comedy, penned by acclaimed playwright Lauren Gunderson. The plot revolves around a woman who takes drastic measures to escape her toxic relationship, leading to a wild and humorous confrontation with a bear. Emma discusses the unique challenges of bringing this unconventional story to life, from conceptualizing the production to working with a talented cast of four, including characters that embody both humor and depth amidst serious themes of domestic conflict.
Emma’s enthusiasm and dedication to her craft shine through as she reflects on her growth as a director and the learning experiences she's encountered along the way. Whether you’re a theater aficionado or new to the scene, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the creative process of student-led theater. Discover how Emma balances her roles as a director and a peer among her cast while navigating the intricacies of stage design, prop creation, and audience engagement in a unique in-the-round format.
