Taylor Theatre Production Nominated for Kennedy Center Honor

The Taylor University Theatre program has been invited to participate in the Midwest Region of the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (KCACTF) following the nomination by festival members of the Taylor production of The Birds. The Birds, written by Conor McPherson, is based on the book by Dapne du Maurier and later the Alfred Hitchcock classic by the same name.

McPherson’s The Birds tells the story of two strangers who take refuge in a house where they are subsequently plagued by fear and isolation that renders their sanctuary from the attacking birds its own traumatic experience.

As a participating production from Region III (Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana) in the KCACTF, Taylor Theatre’s The Birds will be considered for national awards recognizing outstanding achievement in production, design, direction, and performance.

Additionally, over 30 Taylor Theatre students, faculty, and staff will attend the festival with at least 15 students participating in the Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship competition, the Musical Theatre Intensive, and the Dramaturgy, Design, and Playwriting competitions. Taylor Theatre will perform The Birds on January 14, and winners at the regional level will continue on to the national competition in April. 

“Theatre is one of our most distinct and valuable liberal arts,” said Professor Tracy Manning, Co-Chair of Taylor’s Department of Music, Theatre, and Dance. “Our program at Taylor allows our students to explore and present some of humankind’s most challenging stories, and this opportunity is a welcome byproduct of our continuing commitment to creating excellent work.”

Photos courtesy of Chloe Gard.