November presents several opportunities to watch TMCC Theatre students perform both on campus and in the community. Alwin Pizana, a theatre student, is currently juggling roles in two productions. “I had to understand how much workload I was accepted first,” said Pizana, who plans to pursue film acting after graduating in Spring 2025.
The Reno Chamber Orchestra (RCO) is collaborating with TMCC theatre students for a performance of Shakespeare’s Hamlet interspersed with Dmitri Shostakovich’s music. The event will take place on November 9-10 at the University of Nevada, Reno. Amy Heald, Executive Director of RCO, stated, “We at the RCO are very committed to challenging that view and rethinking what is the orchestra’s role in the community.” Shea King, Performing Arts Instructor, explained that actors will perform key scenes from Hamlet alongside orchestral music.
Four TMCC students will perform with minimal costuming and props. “It’s not only a unique experience for the students,” said King about working with an orchestra. Pizana expressed his enthusiasm: “I’m ecstatic… I’m extremely fortunate.”
Tickets for this concert can be purchased through the Reno Chamber Orchestra website.
Another production, Nearly, Washington, runs from November 14-23 at TMCC. This original play takes place in a fictional town and features various elements such as puppets and bee costumes. Pizana described it as shocking and emotionally engaging for audiences.
Shea King noted that Nearly, Washington provides valuable learning experiences due to its technical demands. “[This show] includes our largest cast in the past 2 years,” King remarked.
Pizana shared his experience with stage combat: “It was difficult at first trying to get it all down… they think we’re fighting.”
Tickets for Nearly, Washington are available online through TMCC Theatre.
