Acting with the stars

10/29/2014 3:58 PM

By Kelly O’Brien ‘15

The Peoria Symphony Orchestra has featured some of the world’s most accomplished artists and composers throughout its illustrious history.  In October, it invited Bradley theatre arts students to share the stage with its skilled musicians for a unique presentation of Shakespeare’s “Star-Crossed Lovers.”

Wanting to incorporate classical music from “Romeo and Juliet” with actual scenes from the play, the orchestra’s conductor requested student actors from Bradley.  Shakespeare specialist and temporary Assistant Professor of Theatre Arts Susan Felder was tasked with casting and directing the professional production. 

“Our students blew the roof off,” she said.  “They were as skilled as professional actors I’ve used in their dealings with the production’s technical parts.”

Theatre arts students selected were Kiayla Jackson ’16, Jeffrey Manus ’18, Aidan Barker ’18, Aris-Allen Roberson ’16 and Jake Hayes ’15.  The director praised each individual’s acting abilities.

“Kiayla was so skilled and refreshing as Juliet, Jeff brought a youth and intellect to Romeo that I haven’t seen, Aidan’s humor and intensity gave the audience a dynamic, conflicted Mercutio and Aris Roberson and Jake Hayes had powerful presence on stage that gave great depth to the scenes,” Felder said.

While playing the role of Romeo, Manus especially enjoyed his experience working with his fellow students and a talented director. 

“Everyone brought something to the table which allowed us all to learn from each other’s thoughts and ideas,” he said.  “Also, it was wonderful to learn from [Felder] because she’s brilliant at dissecting scenes.”

Felder felt nothing but pride in her students as they performed with world-class musicians in the 2,200-seat Peoria Civic Center Theatre.

“I was so proud of them,” she said.  “The audience gave them a standing ovation at the end of the piece.”