On May 14, 2008, a group of writing students from MATC attended a Renaissance Theaterworks performance of FAT PIG by Neil LaBute. One might call it a field trip or, simply, a change of scenery from the classroom. But, what happened that night changed the lives of 10 writing students, and reminded us at Renaissance why we do theatre.
Sandra Hays, the student’s instructor, assigned the class to attend the performance and write a review (compare and contrast paper) of their experience for potential publication on our blog. The response was astounding. Hays commented, “…they wrote in their class evaluations that it was the highlight of the semester.”
While we don’t have the space on our blog to publish these reviews in their entirety, we would like to give you the highlights…
Bryan Baumann “never knew where Renaissance Theaterworks was, but is happy he found it.” He didn’t think much of the small theater space until discovering that there wasn’t a bad seat in the house.
Addision Vang enjoyed reading the play before seeing it, but felt seeing a live production brought out the play’s humor, and “put a whole new perspective in view.”
Nick Schroeder was moved by the play’s ability “to touch on differences between people and the common unwillingness to accept them for who they are.”
Fiona Eby doesn’t usually go to see theatre, but enjoyed her experience. She was skeptical of the small theatre space, but then found it “welcoming.” She found the effect of reading the play before seeing it to present an “interesting difference.”
Aaron Schnieder “had some high expectations of the performance, and wasn’t disappointed. If you are looking to do something different or you just really enjoy theatre, then check out a production by Renaissance Theaterworks.”
FAT PIG was Samuel Wiener’s first play…ever. He “usually spends entertainment dollars on sporting events, movies or music venues.” He has “become very interested in seeing other plays because of the great entertainment and new found enjoyment that he has been introduced to be this assignment.”
Zachary Van der puy “would have seen FAT PIG a second or third time. Renaissance Theaterworks put on a great production and he would recommend everybody see at least one performance there, and see for yourself how good they are.”
Tiffany Villiers “liked the intimate setting, it made the whole play seem that much more real.”
Shannon Stockman “liked seeing the play from a close seat, as she could see the facial reactions of each character.”
Chris Kammer also “liked the small setting because it made it feel real.” He “highly recommends it to everyone.”
It’s time to sign up for the coolest gig in town. That’s right…I’m talking about the The Renaissance Team for the UPAF Ride for the Arts. On Sunday, June 7, thousands of bike riders are getting together for a fun ride while raising money for the UPAF. And UPAF is a big sponsor of the performing arts in Milwaukee. So raising money for them is actually raising money for Renaissance. 
