When most people think about theatre, they think of big Broadway shows with talented performers who sound like they were made for the stage. But everyone starts somewhere, and for some, that happens right here at Monmouth University.
MU Players is a student-run theatre club. They host events, fundraisers, and even their own yearly student-produced show. Founded in 2010, MU Players gives students a creative outlet, honing their theatre skills both on and off stage. Students do not have to be theatre majors or minors to join.
MU Players President, Nora O’Rourke junior music industry student, said, “There is an opportunity for every student to get involved creatively. People can try out things in theatre they’ve never tried before and everyone [in the club] is so welcoming and supportive of that.”
The experiences MU Players offers are unique. Theatre brings exciting stories to life, making audiences and participants think, feel, and connect with one another. MU Players gives students a voice and encourages them to be themselves and make new friends.
In the last three years, performance opportunities at Monmouth were limited by the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to the shutdown, MU Players won Organization of the Year and Event of the Year on multiple occasions.
Now, with the pandemic going into an endemic phase, MU Players’ advisor, Professor Sheri Anderson, MFA, says she is excited for the year ahead.
With the largest class of Musical Theatre majors in Monmouth’s history, she believes, “It’s time to put theatre back on the map.”
Annie Sacks, a senior Secondary Education student and member of the MU Players’ Executive Board (E-Board) for three years has seen MU Players go through tough times but still approaches each year with the same passion. Sacks said, “Every year is new and exciting because there is always something new to be taught and shared among everyone. Being able to have this safe space that so many people enjoy is important especially from a leadership standpoint because it allows you to foster that environment for all the members.”
In MU Players, everyone is an essential part of the club. Theatre’s ability to create a comforting and healing environment is invaluable in a post-pandemic world where we crave belonging.
But what happens if you’re not a performer or have never done theatre before? O’Rourke says that’s not a problem. She encourages students to, “Give it a shot, just like everything else in life. Just try it!” She notes that in MU Players, there is something for everyone to do because more happens backstage than people realize.
In fact, in college, she shifted away from her acting background to try her hand at several crew positions. “Growing up, I was always an actor, but at Monmouth, I took on more of a leadership role and backstage role. You’ll never know what you’re going to like until you try it,” O’Rourke explained. Her passion for the craft allowed her to be elected President for the 2023-24 academic year.
And if you ever need a friendly face to convince you to just go for it, O’Rourke recommends talking to Co-Promotions Chair, junior Communications student Gillian DeStefano. Prior to coming to a meeting with O’Rourke, DeStefano had never taken part in theatre. Now, she is an E-Board member, costume designer, and performer.
MU Players offers students a variety of options for participation in their club. Event highlights for the 2023-24 academic year include: Broadway Flea Market and Grand Auction (Oct. 1) Haunted Tour (Oct. 20), Cabaret for a Cause (Dec. 2), Broadway Masterclass (Mar.), and an entirely student-produced show (Apr.).
MU Players is philanthropically involved with Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS (BCEFA). Students will attend and work at Broadway Flea Market and Grand Auction on Oct. 1 alongside Broadway stars, unifying the theatre community and raising money for a good cause. Cabaret for a Cause, which is an annual fundraising showcase, also benefits BCEFA. Professor Anderson reflects that, “[MU Players] Cabaret for a Cause has raised several thousands of dollars to help members of the theatrical community receive healthcare, medications, food, counseling, and emergency financial assistance.” Cabaret for a Cause will take place in Lauren K. Woods Theatre at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2.
Looking to join MU Players? They meet every Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. in the Lauren K. Woods Theatre. Stop by to get involved, try your hand at improv, or learn how you can find your home with this talented group of students. For more information, follow or message them on Instagram @mu__players.
