Mesa Community College student sparks creative synergy in the classroom and the play ‘Appropriate’

In their role as dramaturg for Mesa Community College’s production of the play “Appropriate,” Thunderbird Theatre student Ransom Allen combined a love for theater with a passion for sociology, adding Talkback sessions with sociology and education faculty following upcoming performances and bringing elements of the play into classrooms.

On stage Nov. 22-Dec. 7, the Tony Award-winning play “Appropriate” tells the story of an Arkansas family confronting their inheritance, a plantation with all its troubling history, according to a release.

“I am going to a handful of class sessions with an actor to perform a snippet of the play for the class to watch,” Allen said in the release. “Then I have a series of questions to facilitate a discussion of the play’s topics and the connection to societal issues of today. My goal is to bring the play to people outside of the theatre building and focus on a student-led discussion.”

The post-show Talkback discussions will be held immediately after each performance. Faculty members participating as facilitators and chosen for their expertise and lived experiences include Rod Golden, sociology; Mona Scott-Figueroa, sociology/ethnic studies; Pedro Rodriguez, sociology/history; Tawn Hauptli, education; and Paul Harasha, sociology. The Talkbacks focusing on the play’s complex themes will allow the audience to share their viewpoints and discuss the play’s themes.

Mace Archer, MCC Theatre faculty and director of “Appropriate” said, “Mesa Community College offers the East Valley a wealth of artistic exhibits and performances as well as professional learning opportunities for our students. Adding the Talkback sessions with faculty members from across disciplines enriches the theatre-going experience, giving voice to many.”

Artistically, “Appropriate” holds a special place in the departmental season, with all the visual elements designed by current MCC students. Scenery, costumes, lighting, sound, props and make-up are featured student work, building on the department’s commitment to hands-on student learning.

Performances will be in the MCC Theatre, 1833 W. Southern Ave. in Mesa. Tickets are $10/$13. Reservations and details are available at mesacc.edu/arts/event/2024-11/appropriate.