Eastern student Kerri McColgan recognized at Kennedy Center Theatre Festival

2018 Mar 6

A number of creators and performers behind some of Eastern Connecticut State University's recent theatre productions were acknowledged at the Region I Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF). Held at Western Connecticut State University this past February, the festival is an annual event attended by more than 1,000 students and faculty from colleges across the Northeast.

Among the students was Kerri McColgan '18 of Willimantic, who majors in Elementary Education.

McColgan won a one-week scholarship to attend the Stage Craft Institute of Las Vegas for her hand-operated alligator winch in "Thread City." McColgan made a winch suitable for use in the movement of rolling stage scenery components. The device allows the frames to open similarly to how an alligator's mouth opens.

Thinking back on the festival, Eastern theatre professor Chase Rozelle said, "We've all had very rewarding experiences. Faculty and students alike have found profound opportunity and fellowship. I can't truly describe what it's like to be a member of such a large audience made up of only patrons who are also theatre practitioners passionate about their work. It's thrilling, affirming and hugely inspirational."

KCACTF recognizes and celebrates the finest and most diverse work produced in university and college theatre programs.