By Brooke Destra
CCC Journalism Program
BLACKWOOD – The Camden County College Theatre Department is staging “Great Expectations” in the Little Theatre on campus.
Originally a novel by Charles Dickens, the piece was later adapted for the stage by Neil Bartlett. The play is directed by department head Marjorie Sokoloff, who takes great pride in not only the production, but also the students in the cast and crew.
The set of “Great Expectations” stands during the intermission of Saturday’s performance. By Brooke Destra, CCC Journalism Program
The production is one of the first to be a part of a new program called The Professional Jumpstart, in which students are able to learn alongside guest artists who work professionally in the industry. For the many students in the program hoping to continue their acting journey after their time at Camden County College, this is an appealing way to get the perspective of those in the industry.
The guest artists who team up with the cast and crew of “Great Expectations” are Melissa Connell and Mark Swift. Both artists have significant roles in the production and Swift is credited for the fight choreography.
Students in the cast said the program has benefited them. Peter Del Rossi, who plays the lead role, Pip, in his first stage production, said he was fortunate he was able to learn from two highly respected actors working at a professional level in the craft. “For me it was incredible,” Del Rossi stated after Saturday’s performance. “They completely change the energy I feel on stage every time I’m out there with them. It is awesome.”
The hard work and dedication started several months before the play opened. The creative team began designing the show, including the lighting, sound and set, two months before rehearsals began. The actors rehearsed for four and a half weeks before the show opened Friday.
Shaun Yates, head of technical direction and set design, is proud of the vision he brought to life from the creative team. “They have to live in the world of the play without distracting from it,” Yates said. The set is simple but gives many levels to the stage and creates different locations within the confined area.
“Great Expectations” will run through next weekend with performances at 8 p.m. Dec. 6, 7 and 8 in the Little Theatre in Lincoln Hall. Tickets are $15 at the door, but students can receive a $5 discount by showing their ID.
Members of the cast of “Great Expectations” gather on the stage after Saturday’s performance. Photo by Brooke Destra, CCC Journalism Program