Oscar-winning actress Shelley Winters once said,
“Every now and then, when you're on stage, you hear the best sound a player can hear. It's a sound you can't get in movies or in television. It is the sound of a wonderful, deep silence that means you've hit them where they live.”
It’s goose-bump inspiring moments like these that attract both actors and audiences to the theater. Players of every background and level of expertise long to make that human connection, to participate in something genuinely moving - no matter the genre. And anyone who has taken part in launching a theater production knows how fulfilling the teamwork is - how the process of preparing for opening night brings cast and crew together, building lasting friendships and unforgettable experiences.
Theater at John Cabot is all about forging those life-long memories and relationships. Students who choose an American university in Rome are typically open to new experiences and quite motivated to make new and interesting connections with our diverse student body. Getting involved in the JCU Theater Society or Drama Club is an ideal way to break the ice, indulge creative passions, and enjoy those inspiring moments of authentic connection.
Getting a Feel for the Stage
No matter the duration of their stay, students who study abroad in Italy are welcome to participate in theatrical productions at John Cabot. The JCU Theater Society dives deep into the medium by exploring classical, modern, and contemporary pieces. Catering to a range of dramatic preferences, the Society welcomes expert lecturers to share insights on the works under study, as well as helping members master a range of practical exercises and acting techniques. Every year, the Theater Society stages one of the works its members have studied - but if standing in the spotlight is not your cup of tea, there are always opportunities to get involved in crucial behind-the-scenes activities like costume and set design.
Joining the Chorus
If musicals are more to your taste, then you’ll want to check out John Cabot’s Drama Club. The Club welcomes any and all lovers of music, dance and dramatic performance. If your decision to study in Italy meant leaving behind a beloved dance troupe, band, or perhaps your piano - fear not. The Drama Club is your musical home away from home. Every year, members launch an iconic production such as The Wiz, Chicago, Grease, or Into the Woods. And much like the Theater Society, the Drama Club is always in need of talented tailors, make-up artists, and stage managers. No matter your skillset, you can join in and experience the “smell of the greasepaint, and the roar of the crowd.”
What’s your favorite play or musical?
