Welcome back to my blog! As some of you know, in addition to teaching, I’m also involved with Gannon’s theater productions.

For every production at our Schuster Theatre, there is a day devoted to that particular show: we call this “Tech Day.” Tech Day is usually from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on a Saturday a few weeks before the opening of a show, and it typically consists of building the set, making costumes and gathering props.

The set for "The Oz Project" comes together during Tech Day. This photo by Rachel Behrmann was entered in Gannon's "Favorite Spot Around Campus" photo contest on www.facebook.com/gannonu.

Tech Day arrived at the Schuster Theatre this past Saturday! Our upcoming production is “The Oz Project.” Although Saturday was a long day, much was accomplished. The set for “The Oz Project” is gigantic, consisting of 36 wooden pallets, a second level and two staircases. We knew we had a rather large task on our hands, but we were well prepared. Students from all over campus, including members of the theatre fraternity Alpha Psi Omega, brothers from Pi Kappa Alpha and Zeta Beta Tau and students from theater classes came to assist at Tech Day. We were very grateful for their help.

So, what was accomplished at Tech Day? Well, we assigned groups and began to devour the items on our to-do list. This included securing the silver painted pallets to create the back wall, building stairs and bolting legs for second story platforms.

Now, you’ve heard all about Tech Day and the various tasks. However, you’re probably wondering about “The Oz Project.” What is it, exactly? Is it the same as “The Wizard of Oz”? “The Oz Project” was written by Zach Flock, Gannon’s e-marketing coordinator and Edge adviser, and is a rather different rendition of “The Wizard of Oz.” It’s a new, brilliant piece of work that I believe audiences will enjoy. Without giving away too much information, all I can say is, be prepared to see something completely new and interesting!

Next time you hear someone say, “Tech Day is coming soon,” please feel free to come join us at the Schuster Theatre and have a good time! Also, call (814) 871-7494 to reserve your tickets for The Oz Project, which runs April 22-24 and April 29- May 1.

Thanks for reading my blog!

-David

Stuff You Might Also Like: Check out how fellow bloggers Nicole Dohoda and Emily Wright have been involved at the Schuster Theatre this semester!