Bonzuko

The MSCD Stage Combat class (THE 421C) performed their final scenes back on Dec. 9th to a small audience of fellow students and the one who was grading them–me! We had an even number of students this semester, so they all were in pairs, and all did really well showing their accumulated skills in staff, unarmed, and rapier. I posted one picture already from the event, but wanted to wait on the details until grades were in. Here’s the rundown on the scenes:

• Andreas & Noah: cranky teacher and rebellious student (hm…): loved seeing my textbook being used as a shield. Noah takes air (of course) and two nicely gory moments involving white tic tacs and blood on the white board.
• Kris & Paul B.: Waiting for Godot: As a fight scene. With late knaps. ‘Nuff said.
• Rezal & Brady: Taming of the Shrew: Kate is infuriated with Petruchio’s excellent avoids. some lovely status work, and combat waltzing.
• Matthew & Chris: two well-spoken hobos fight over a nickel: Matthew also has some mad tumbling skills. Very good stage speed and escalated tension.
• Mandy & Coco: “Lipstick and Love”: two cute housewives go at it over a stained shirt. Really good staff work and some great hair acting. A comedic moment with a toy lightsaber. Line highlight: “Again? I’ll get the tarp.”
• Jordan & Scott: archaeologists have an intellectual spat: the script had me rolling. Blue glitter is no doubt still everywhere in ARTS 271. Wonderful work with both holding the staff, also 2-rapiers vs. staff. A gruesome bite. Mummies and Treasure Quarterly.
• Nate & Jason: “Brutally Honest”: a period piece set at a reunion. Good throws and lifts, as well as an interesting way of using a duffle bag in defense. Much blood. See Nate’s picture below.
• Nick & Paul S.: “Ninja Monopoly”: old-school kung fu movie line dubbed in by fellow actors. Excellent stage speed. Game board vs. staff. Bruce-Lee-esque blocks. Ground fighting.

All in all, I was extremely happy with everyone’s work. Students can pick up their graded write-ups and detailed critique within the first two weeks of next semester. Good job, everyone,and I’ll see you in January!
~Jenn

Images: Jordan & Scott on the cover of Mummies & Treasure Quarterly; Rezal & Brady doing Shakespeare; Noah & Andreas choking, flying, and punching. Taken 12/9/08.