The Kennedy Center Event: Supporting Passion

by Tribekah Jordan

Sometimes we question: What do we want to be known for?

Perhaps the students who attended the Kennedy Center Theater Event at 4C’s want to be known for their passion for theater.

The event, held Jan. 30-Feb. 4, was conducted by the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival. This national theater program involves 18,000 students annually from colleges and universities across the country. The KCACTF (Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival) has a goal to support, recognize, and celebrate students' wide range of work produced within their school's theater programs.

The 4c’s event consisted of students from various universities, such as Bridgewater State University, Central Connecticut State University, and Rhode Island College, among others. The event gave students the opportunity to further their knowledge and involvement with the performing arts.

Attendees were encouraged to take part in theater exercises that dealt with assorted topics, such as “Auditioning Reimagined: Banishing Self Doubt.” Discussions included mental health and anxiety; embracing vulnerability by turning stress into excitement; and the importance of having one’s work seen and one’s creativity valued.

This event encouraged creative freedom, with students presenting plays and performing songs from the stage.

Meanwhile, audiences were exposed to the students’ passion for theater.

Mackenzie Richard, a student at Rhode Island College, encapsulated the value of the experience by saying: "This week was a gift."

Award winners (Sophie Leuzzi)

Categories: Featured, Events