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by Rajiv Joseph

The London Program is what we call one of the most special opportunities we
foster at the USC Upstate Theatre program. Established in 2011 by Professor Jim
Cox, the London Program is a partnership with the FUSE Theatre Arts Festival at
Kingston College in London, England. Unlike other study abroad programs this
opportunity costs nothing for our students to attend and is fully funded. Students
audition and interview to be part of a company that travels to the FUSE Festival.
This gives our studentts an opportunity to travel abroad, experience working at a
theatre festival, and create a show that has to be built to tour. Set pieces, costumes,
and props must be able to fit in two large suitcases. So, production values must be
limited. This year’s production of Gruesome Playground Injuries by Rajiv Joseph was
assigned to the Studio Theatre at the FUSE Festival, a theatre space with no wings.
Every limitation is an opportunity for creative contribution. We had to find a way
to have all costume changes, makeup changes, and set changes happen before the
audience. This afternoon’s production is a combination of the collaborative ideas
of our six students who made up our merry band of players, designers, and crew
who brought this show to life. I think you will find their creative design has
uplifted the wonderful performance of the actors. It is a delight to give this
production one more opportunity to play upon the stage. Thank you Region IV
KCACTF. Enjoy the show!