SPOTLIGHT: Happy 1st birthday, Sketchual Misconduct!

One year ago today, Suffolk’s sketch comedy troupe, Sketchual Misconduct, was born.Sketchual Misconduct

Suffolk Freshmen Breanna Alexander and Corinne DeCost first came up with the idea in early February 2012 on a whim, while they were backstage working on the PAO’s Shakespeare in Hollywood. Neither had done comedy before, but were intrigued by the fact that there was nothing else like it on campus. On February 28, 2012, they held their first group meeting. The cast was quickly set, consisting of nine enthusiastic writers and performers.

The group quickly became a creative outlet for writers and performers and quickly gained interest around campus. Though it usually takes a year to earn a ‘coach’, the co-founding girls were allowed to hire a coach in August 2012 and were even a part of the interview process.

This fall, their group grew to 12 members – the current cast includes Alanna Bassett, Luke Bergamini, Corinne DeCost, Marissa Kennedy, Tim Kish, Erica LeBlanc, Kayleigh McElroy (who is currently studying abroad in Rome!), Ashley Niemiec, Alex Pappas, Krysten Schmelzer, and Parker Thurston.

In the past year, they have performed at the Cristela Alonzo show, the PAO Spring Showcase, the RHA’s Hauntfest, the PAO Winter Showcase, RHA’s Valentine Carnival, TWLOHA’s Showcase, and one of their own shows. Coach Will Luera (an Artistic Director Emeritus at Improv Boston) helped the group get a performance at Improv Boston’s coveted SketchHaus, something that is usually reserved for groups that have performed in multiple smaller shows at the venue.

All sketches performed are original scripts written by members of the group. The group has accomplished a lot in just a year’s time, and that is definitely something that the members should be proud of!

Come support them tonight – they’ll be performing briefly at the Unity Week Showcase in the C.Walsh at 8 PM! Meet us at the door, we’ll be giving out prizes to the first 5 to whisper “INSTAUNITY”….or “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” to us!

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BLOG: Time to Unite!

It’s no secret that we don’t have a campus.
But we have three schools.SUmap1_1

CAS, NESAD, and SBS. We’re all connected through one name …Suffolk University.

Even if we don’t have a “campus” – I believe that we do.

The Boston Common is our quad.
We have all of the amenities – classrooms, labs, libraries, cafeterias, gyms, theatres…everything is available.
We have the same walk between residence halls and classes that most colleges do.

Above all…we have a community. As long as you’re willing to let them in, there are a lot of remarkable things happening because of Suffolk students. Performances, sports games, contests, events…There are hundreds of events that are made possible around this campus.

Suffolk University has given me some pretty incredible opportunities. We may not have housing for all four years – but I personally believe that the lack of housing has helped me to become more independent and responsible on my own. We’re in an incredible city – with employment options all around within walking distance. Suffolk students are exposed to so many great things – it’s time to celebrate that!

Happy unity week!

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Upcoming Events for UNITY WEEK: Week of 2/25/13

Hey everyone! There is so much happening this week and it would be a shame not to try to attend as many of these amazing events as you can, sooooooo we have a contest! Whomsoever takes the most pictures of the most events attended this week and sends them to us through whatever medium they so choose, will win…….A GIFT CARD TO IMPROV ASYLUM!!! WOoooooOOoo! Make sure you #InstaUnity so we can keep track.

Ongoing:

Stephen D. Paine Scholarship Exhibition: Check out the artwork of the winners of the Stephen D. Paine Scholarship at the Gallery at NESAD! Now-March 16th

Faculty Exhibit: From now until March 5th check out artwork created by the professors at NESAD in the Adams Gallery located in the Suffolk Law School!

Monday 25th

  • African American History Bowl! Kick off Unity Week with Greek Council for a fun, interactive trivia show celebrating Black History, with questions regarding prominent historical figures, pioneering trailblazers, pop culture figures and other notable topics!
    Winners receive a $200.00 cash prize!
  • 5PM Donahue Cafe
  • #InstaUnity
  • Give A Damn: is an inspiring feature length documentary about three young men who journey across three continents immersing themselves in poverty and seeking answers to some of life’s most difficult questions.
    Come watch a video of their journey and hear about their experiences in the C Walsh Theatre at 7pm!#InstaUnity

Tuesday 26th

KEEP CALM AND CLIMB ON: SoFit Take the Stairs Tuesday!

Wednesday 27th

  • Everyone’s A Little Bit Racist Round Table Discussion: Race, ethnicity and sexual orientation are all front and center in Suffolk University’s production of Avenue Q. How are issues of identity handled in the business of theater and film? And how does one cast for “identity”? And why is Johnny Depp playing Tonto in a movie? Join a panel of theater/film makers and watchers as we talk about race and the modern entertainment industry.
    Join us at 3PM, Munce Conference Room! #InstaUnity
  • Shane Windmeyer:  Shane L. Windmeyer is a leading author on gay campus issues, national leader in gay and lesbian civil rights and a champion for LGBT issues on college campuses. He is co-founder and executive director of Campus Pride. It is the only national organization for student leaders and campus organizations working to create a safer college environment for LGBT students. Hosted by Suffolk University’s Greek Council and Rainbow Alliance.
  • 5PM #InstaUnity
  • Student vs Faculty Basketball:  in the Ridgeway Gym at 6:30. Show some team spirit and join in on a basketball game between Suffolk faculty and students. There will be halftime entertainment and a chance to win raffle prizes. Not interested in playing? Come and show some support for your peers in honor of Unity Week!
  • #InstaUnity
  • TWLOHA Suffolk Lyrics and Conversation Benefit Show: Join us for a night of music and conversation as we hold a benefit show for To Write Love on Her Arms.
    Proceeds from the show will go to directly invest in recovery and treatment of individuals. Donations will be accepted & GREATLY appreciatedThis show is open to the public, you do not have to be a SU student to attend!
  • Donahue Cafe at 6:30

Thursday 28th

  • LeaderChef: Join Unity Week, Journey, and the rest of the Suffolk community in sharing cultural experiences through eating food from adifferentculture while in an authentic cultural setting!
  • 1PM, D403 #InstaUnity
  • Unity Week Showcase: Join us in the C. Walsh Theatre at 7PM for a night of diverse performance from dance to song to comedy to spoken word it will be an exciting and entertaining evening!
  • #InstaUnity

***SPECIAL NOTE!! WE WILL BE TABLING AT THE SHOWCASE AND THE FIRST 5 PEOPLE TO SEE US AND SAY #INSTAUNITY WILL RECEIVE A PRIZE!!!***

  • Voices For Now: A serious, satiric, affectionate musical journey into the passion of Generation Y: hopes hit hard by recession and debt, hooked on social media, yearning for meaningful work and love. Featuring songs by some of America’s top musical theatre artists.
  • C. Walsh 8PM
  • Seriously Bent: Performance in the basement of 150 at 10:00!

Friday 1st

  • First Friday! For the first time in this event’s history, it will actually take place on the first Friday of the month! Be there for this historic moment! Also for the stand up comedy, WHICH IS ANOTHER FIRST FOR FIRST FRIDAY!! You can’t miss out on history in the making!!!!!! 150 Basement 7PM
  • Voices For Now: A serious, satiric, affectionate musical journey into the passion of Generation Y: hopes hit hard by recession and debt, hooked on social media, yearning for meaningful work and love. Featuring songs by some of America’s top musical theatre artists.
  • C. Walsh 8PM
  • Black & White Affair: Suffolk University’s Black Student Union is ending Black History Month with THE BLACK AND WHITE AFFAIR! Join us for our biggest event of the YEAR! This is a semi-formal event. Black & white attire is suggested.
    There will be PRIZES for BEST dressed male and female!
    – FREE ADMISSION
    – Bring proper ID/college ID
    – FREE FOOD
  • Friday, March 1st at the Hyatt Regency Boston: One Avenue De Lafayette, Boston MA 02111 8:00pm – 1:00am

Saturday 2nd

  •  Singing Strides: The Suffolk Ramifications, Rather Be Giraffes from Brandeis, Acapocalypse from Emmanuel, and For Good Measure
    from Emmanuel are joining forces to raise money for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. Please show them your support! The show is in the C. Walsh from 7-9.

Sunday 3rd

  •  Make sure to tune in to some live tweeting from a field trip to Salem, Beverly and Danvers with the cast of The Crucible! 
Posted in Athletics, Collaboration, Discussion, NESAD, Performance, Ramifications, Seriously Bent, Student Group Event, Theatre Department, THIS WEEK | Comments Off on Upcoming Events for UNITY WEEK: Week of 2/25/13

INTERVIEW: Dan Lampariello

We’ve expressed our excitement over Avenue Q all week – and the day is finally here. It’s showtime! Last night, InstaRam was given a special peek at the cast’s final dress rehearsal, and there is not a single thing we would change about the show. Star of the show, Dan Lampariello, along with Jillian Couilliard (who we interviewed yesterday!) shone onstage with incredible puppetry, facial expressions, and humor. Luckily for us, we were able to steal Dan away from behind his puppet, Princeton, for an exclusive interview!Dan Lampariello

INSTARAM: What is your major/year?
DAN LAMPARIELLO: Broadcast Journalism Major, Marketing Minor / Junior

What activities are you involved in on and off campus?
LAMPARIELLO: I am currently involved in Techies Union, Rampage Show Choir, I am a Trustee Ambassador and also a Student Reporter for Suffolk In the City & NECN

Explain the work you’re doing in Avenue Q – what is it like to work with puppets?!
LAMPARIELLO: Working with the puppets in Avenue Q has defiantly been a learning experience. Learning how to make the puppet breath when I’m breathing or look where I’m looking has defiantly been the hardest part. Also, having to come into the rehearsal process already off book was a big challenge (you can’t be holding a script and a puppet at the same time). Overall, working with puppets is incredible. It makes you feel like there is an extension to your being. Your bringing life to an object!

How did you get involved with theatre, and with the PAO in particular?
LAMPARIELLO: When I was first introduced to the PAO during my orientation freshman year I knew that I would be getting involved throughout my college career. They are truly the office on campus that every other office or organization should strive to be like. It is truly one BIG family. Having the ability to express myself through different shows each year and also being involved with a number of their different groups has truly made college an enjoyable experience. No matter how big or small of a role you play in one of their productions or groups the staff in the PAO makes you feel so “Special”.

Random Question: What is your favorite internet dance sensation, and what is your signature dance move?
LAMPARIELLO: Defiantly Gangnam Style …. that PSY is one crazy dude. I would have to say my signature move is probably the sprinkler or the shopping cart!

 

Come and check out Avenue Q tonight, Friday, and Saturday night at 8 PM in the C. Walsh theatre! Tickets are free and are currently available at the HUB.
A special thanks to Dan Lampariello, and best of luck to him on his opening night!

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INTERVIEW: Jillian Couilliard

Are you interested in seeing Avenue Q this weekend? You should be.
Over here at InstaRam, we can hardly contain ourselves. So many Q-themed events are going around all over campus this week, inspired by the charming (and surprisingly racist) characters.

We got a chance to speak to one of the faces BEHIND the puppets – Jillian Couilliard, who provides the puppeteering and performance for lead Kate Monster.

INSTARAM: What is your major/year?
JILLIAN COUILLIARD: Senior, Theatre MajorJillian Couilliard

What activities are you involved in on and off campus?
COUILLIARD: I work at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum as an actor. I am also an assistant set designer to Richard Chambers in the theatre department. I’ve worked there for 4 years doing that on shows such as Anything Goes, Into the Woods, and Car Talk: The Musical!!!

Explain the work you’re doing in Avenue Q – what is it like to work with puppets?!
COUILLIARD: Avenue Q has been an amazing experience. I grew up watching Sesame Street, so this show has really brought some childhood memories back. It is interesting to see how the puppets are brought to life. Honestly, Kate has become a real person in my mind. It usually takes about an hour relaxing for me to stop talking in her voice after the show.

How did you get involved with theatre, and with the PAO in particular?
COUILLIARD: I started dancing when I was little. I grew up a competitive dancer and just happened to fall into singing when someone didn’t show up for a musical I was dancing in. I started theatre in high school. My first show was Once on This Island. I came to Suffolk to continue working on theatre skills and met some people from the PAO at the Temple Street Fair.

What is your favorite role that you’ve played previously?
COUILLIARD: Previously, I was in These Seven Sicknesses as The Carrier. That was really fun because I got to work with Wes Savick on SEVEN different shows. I also got to ride a scooter. Other than that, I’d say my favorite role I’ve ever played would be Mimi in Rent.

Random Q: What is the strangest talent you have?
COUILLIARD: This isn’t strange but I like to embroider. I am working on a Tea Party quilt at home.

Come and check out Avenue Q on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night at 8 PM in the C. Walsh theatre! Tickets are free and are currently available at the HUB.

Stay tuned for more sneak peeks at the production. It’s one that you definitely will not want to mess!

A special thanks to Jillian Couilliard – who kindly let us interview her while she was in the rush of tech week!

 

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Upcoming Events: Week of 2/19/13.

Ongoing:

GET YOUR FREE AVENUE Q TICKETS AT THE HUB BEFORE THEY ARE GONE!

Calling All Artists! Auditions for BSU’s Poetry Slam show with Oveous Maximus! They  are looking for poets, singers, spoken word artists, painters, etc. to audition throughout the month of FEBRUARY Sign up by contacting incoomber@suffolk.edu.

The Last Will: On the life of retired Shakespeare, from playwright Robert Brustein and director by Steve Maler. At the Modern Theatre February 13-24. Tickets are ONLY $10 for students.

Stephen D. Paine Scholarship Exhibition: Check out the artwork of the winners of the Stephen D. Paine Scholarship at the Gallery at NESAD! Now-March 16th

Faculty Exhibit: From now until March 5th check out artwork created by the professors at NESAD in the Adams Gallery located in the Suffolk Law School!

Tuesday 19th

  • Soul Food Luncheon! Free soul food brought to you by the Black Student Union. From 1-2:30 in the Donahue Cafe!
  • W!CKED Dance Workshop: We all know when you watch W!CKED you think, “I wish I had moves like Mick Jagger”. NOW’S YOUR CHANCE! Learn a short hip-hop routine from W!CKED choreographers and enjoy some free food at 6pm in the Donahue Cafe
Wednesday 20th
  • Cooking 101! So, you live in an apartment…great, right? Maybe not when it comes to cooking your own food. If you’re tired of mac n’ cheese and ramen, take our Cooking 101 class with one of our very own Sodexo chefs. Space is limited—reserve your spot today!  5-7 in the Law School: Corcoran Room. Email ocho@suffolk.edu

Thursday 21st

  • Avenue Q! Enjoy the Suffolk University performance of Avenue Q! For those of you who don’t know what it’s about, think…an adult version of Sesame Street. It’s a do not miss event. 8pm in the C. Walsh FREE TICKETS AT THE HUB!
  • Seriously Bent: Performance in the basement of 150 at 10:00!

Friday 22nd

  • Avenue Q! Enjoy the Suffolk University performance of Avenue Q! For those of you who don’t know what it’s about, think…an adult version of Sesame Street. It’s a do not miss event. 8pm in the C. Walsh FREE TICKETS AT THE HUB!

Saturday 23rd

  • Avenue Q! Enjoy the Suffolk University performance of Avenue Q! For those of you who don’t know what it’s about, think…an adult version of Sesame Street. It’s a do not miss event. 8pm in the C. Walsh FREE TICKETS AT THE HUB!

Sunday 24th

  • African American History Bowl! Kick off Unity Week with Greek Council for a fun, interactive trivia show celebrating Black History, with questions regarding prominent historical figures, pioneering trailblazers, pop culture figures and other notable topics!
    Winners receive a $200.00 cash prize!
  • 7PM Donahue Cafe
Posted in NESAD, Performance, Pioneer Performance Series, Seriously Bent, Student Group Event, THIS WEEK | Comments Off on Upcoming Events: Week of 2/19/13.

LAST MINUTE VALENTINE’S IDEA: The Brattle Theatre

If you’re like me, and like old movies, 1942’s Casablanca is probably at the top of your favorite’s list.

Casablanca Poster

If you’ve never seen it before, there is a perfect way to see it, for only $7 with your student ID. The Brattle theatre by Harvard Square is playing it tonight at 7:00 and at 9:45 on the big screen.

This film has a bit of every genre – comedy, adventure, romance…and the ending is one of the most classic in cinema history. It’s one of those films you have to see at some point in your life, and the Brattle gives you the best possible experience. Last night was my first time seeing this cinematic treasure, but I was immediately enchanted by the atmosphere. The old-timey theatre itself and the fact that they played a Looney Tunes cartoon before the movie (just like in the old days!) transported me immediately to the 1940s, which made the film-going experience all the more worthwhile. The experience overall was fantastic. I would definitely recommend it for an inexpensive last-minute Valentine’s date!

If you don’t happen to make it to Casablanca tonight…for fun and silly date this weekend, you can even make it to their 18th Annual Bugs Bunny Film Festival tomorrow night, at 5:30, 7:30, or 9:30 PM!

Right now, this particular venue is trying to make money in order to get a new projection system to keep up with the times (since most films are now only released in digital format to theatres) so any support will make a huge difference for them. Visit them at http://brattlefilm.org/ for more information!

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INTERVIEW: Matthew Eriksen

This InstaRam feature of the week is Matt Eriksen. He is being featured for his involvement off campus doing extra work for locally shot movies. Below is a link to help you find out how you too can be involved!

                                                                  matt

INSTARAM: What is your major/year?

MATTHEW ERIKSEN: Advertising and Theatre/2015

What kinds of activities are you involved in on campus?

ERIKSEN: On campus I am involved heavily in the Office of Orientation and New Student Programs. Last summer I was an Orientation leader, last fall I was a Teaching Assistant for SU101 and starting last month I earned the title of Family Orientation Scholar for the 2013 academic and summer session school year. I also have held an internship with the Office of Marketing and Communications here at Suffolk where I work as a design intern in the print and advertising departments. I most recently got involved with the Caribbean Student Union through their upcoming fashion show, it should be a good time.

Explain the work you do with Boston Casting.

ERIKSEN: Through my account with Agency Pro, I’ve worked on several movies filmed here in Boston. I have been an extra for RIPD, Crooked Arrows, The Makeover, Here Comes the Boom, and Ted.

How did you get involved with Boston Casting?

ERIKSEN: I got involved with Boston Casting while in high school. I was in a community service group called “For Jake’s Sake” which is a non-profit organization that raises money for children with autism. At an event for this group, there was a raffle which included a free gift certificate for a class with Boston Casting. With the help of his friends and family, I won! I took a class with Angela Peri (the founder of Boston Casting) and she encouraged him to join Agency Pro.

Random last question – Do you want to bring sexy back?

Matt: I already did.

Matt also has a profile on IMDB, check it out! 

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm5192333/?ref_=fn_al_nm_

 

For more information on casting in Boston: https://sites.suffolk.edu/suffolkpao/?p=246

Posted in Boston, InstaRam Feature of the Week, THIS WEEK | Comments Off on INTERVIEW: Matthew Eriksen

Upcoming Events: Week of 2/11/13

Ongoing:

Calling All Artists! Auditions for BSU’s Poetry Slam show with Oveous Maximus! They  are looking for poets, singers, spoken word artists, painters, etc. to audition throughout the month of FEBRUARY Sign up by contacting incoomber@suffolk.edu.

Audition for the Unity Week showcase! Sign ups are outside of the PAO for singers, dancers, performers, comedians, spoken word artists, bands, or any other talent you can think of!

The Last Will: On the life of retired Shakespeare, from playwright Robert Brustein and director by Steve Maler. At the Modern Theatre February 13-24. Tickets are ONLY $10 for students.

Stephen D. Paine Scholarship Exhibition: Check out the artwork of the winners of the Stephen D. Paine Scholarship at the Gallery at NESAD! Now-March 16th

Faculty Exhibit: From now until March 5th check out artwork created by the professors at NESAD in the Adams Gallery located in the Suffolk Law School!

Monday 11th

  • Movie Night with BSU: Endgame: Aids in Black America, Join BSU and Diversity services for the film and food in Donahue 403 at 5:00!
  • Spring Showcase: Watch 4 amazing acts of student written and directed performances! Come to laugh, cry, and be inspired by our fellow students. The show is free and will take place in the studio theatre at 8:00, but be sure to reserve your seat! Reserve Tickets Here

Tuesday 12th

  • Poetry ReadingFeaturing authors Steven Cramer and Rodney Wittwer in the Poetry Center of the 3rd floor of the Library at 7:00pm
  • Story of Stuff: Join the Suffolk Eco-Reps for the film and a discussion about the environment! Refreshments provided on the 2nd Floor of 10 West at 7pm!

Wednesday 13th

  • Paradise Lost Marathon! AN ALL DAY EVENT! Come and go as you please, experience all of John Milton’s epic poem of angels, demons, and the fall of mankind in just one day in a group reading with Suffolk faculty and students. Refreshments provided. Go to the English Department between 8:30am and 7:30pm!
  • Meal N’ Reel Perks of Being A Wallflower: Bring a date/friend for a special chance to win a great Valentine’s Day package prize! The FIRST Meal N’ Reel in the C. Walsh! Be a part of history 🙂 At 5:30 in the C. Walsh.

Thursday 14th: HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!

  • Seriously Bent: Performance in the basement of 150 at 10:00!

Friday 15th

  • First Friday Presents The Guilty Sparks: Let’s try this again…ehm NEMO…The Guilty Sparks Featuring: NICK AIKENS on Lead vocals and keys, LUKE BERGAMINI on Guitar and backup vox,  SEAN EAGAN on Bass, and NICO RENZUILI on Drums. Performing covers and original songs with FREE entrance, FREE snacks and FREE drinks! Doors open at 6:45 in the 150 basement!

 

Posted in Audition, Cinema, NESAD, Performance, Program Council, Seriously Bent, Sketchual Misconduct, Student Group Event, THIS WEEK | Comments Off on Upcoming Events: Week of 2/11/13

INTERVIEW: Marina Silva

INSTARAM: What is major/year?

MARINA SILVA: I am a theatre arts major in my junior year.

What kinds of activities are you involved in on campus?

SILVA: Right now, I am a dramaturgical intern for Robert Brustein’s show, The Last Will, which will be premiering at the Modern Theatre. I  am also currently involved in the Alternative Spring Break process in which I am bound for Meridian, Mississippi. Other than that, I’ve pretty much contained myself inside of the theatre department.

Explain your upcoming project?

SILVA: I decided to write about relationships, mainly focusing on the doubts that one of the characters has about being in one. The rest of the play brings these two couples in a cafe to separate epiphanies about their respective relationships and whether or not they decide to remain in them, whilst talking about brownies.

How did you get involved with this project? What are you most excited about?

SILVA: The idea of having two contrasting couples interacting with each other was always something I wanted to be fleshed out into a play. I wrote an earlier draft of “Relationships in Terms of Brownies” with a different name and plot, not the same play at all. After reviewing it again, I wanted something that could be fun to watch and yet relate with the characters. What I’m most excited about is the energy everyone involved has. The rehearsal process has been beyond wonderful and I could not have had a better cast to work with. They really make these characters c

Marina Silva

ome to life and I cannot wait to see them onstage. They’re probably most excited about the fact that they get to eat brownies every night.

Random last question – Name something you do alone that you wouldn’t do in front of others.

SILVA: I can do a pretty decent Gollum from Lord of the Rings voice. The only reason I keep it to myself is because every time I do it, I am told to stop.

 

 

 

Check out Marina’s play “Relationships in Terms of Brownies” as well as plays written by students Ingrid Oslund, Adam Santaniello, and Leslie Steeves this weekend at the Theatre Department’s Spring Showcase! Tickets are sold out, but a few seats are likely to be available for free if you arrive at the studio theatre located at the 4th floor of our Archer building!

Show dates/times are…
Feb. 7 & 8: 8pm
Feb. 9 & 10: 3pm & 8pm

Posted in Boston, InstaRam Feature of the Week, Performance, Showcase, Theatre Department | Comments Off on INTERVIEW: Marina Silva