SCF THEATRE/Studio 84 Productions
Introduction
SCF THEATRE presents four or five shows annually. These comedies, dramas, and mysteries are presented in the David S. & Anne V. Howard Studio Theatre, which is located in the SW corner of the Neel Performing Arts Center.
These theatre productions are staged by professional directors who also serve as adjunct
and full-time faculty. Auditions are open to SCF students and community
members.
Upcoming Events
"Love/Sick" by John Cariani
AUDITIONS:
TBA for January 2022
Plays:
"Love/ Sick" by John Cariani. November 12, 13, 19, 20 @ 8pm and November 14, 21 @ 2pm
Howard Studio Theatre Box Office Hours:
1 hour before each performance
Neel PAC Box Office Phone: (941) 752-5252
Tickets will be available online at SCF.Edu/Theatre or SCF.Edu/Neel
The Story of Studio 84
In November 1966, the SCF Department of Theatre presented its first production, "The Little Hut" on the stage of the Samuel R. Neel Auditorium. In the summer of 1972, a "black box" studio theatre was constructed under the leadership of Professor John W. James, the director of theatre. The wooden risers originally seated folding chairs until 120 seats were salvaged from the old Players of Sarasota building. However, only 84 seats could fit into the theatre, which led to the studio theatre's original name.
In the mid-1980s, a new stage was built and the original 84 seats were replaced with newer, larger and more comfortable ones. The old wooden risers were replaced one or two at a time with welded steel risers and casters. In the early 1990s, Studio 84 obtained a new lobby, hallway, and box office. Soon after his retirement in December 1998, Studio 84 Theatre was renamed the John W. James Studio Theatre in honor of the professor's perseverance in fulfilling his vision of transforming a hollow shell into a vital studio theatre.
The final performance in the John W. James Studio Theatre was held on June 16, 2007. One week later, 40 alumni helped pack and move 35 years worth of theatre materials prior to the studio theatre's dismantling. For the 2007-08 season, Studio 84 Productions was housed in the former film annex during major remodeling of the new performing arts wing. On September 26, 2008, the first performance of "The Servant of Two Masters" was held in the new 116-seat David S. & Anne V. Howard Studio Theatre.
Theatre
Classes in the dramatic arts are offered each semester through the Department of the Performing Arts. Please click here to see the course of study. For further information, please click here to contact Craig Smith, Theatre Program Manager, or by telephone at (941)752-5586.
Delta Psi Omega
Delta Psi Omega was organized March 20, 1929, as an honorary dramatic fraternity for the purpose of providing an honor society for those doing a high standard of work in college dramatics. The expansion of Delta Psi Omega among the colleges of the United States and Canada provides a wider fellowship for those interested in college theatre. The Manatee Community College chapter of Delta Psi Omega, Cast #202, was established in 1966. Students are admitted into this national honorary fraternity at an awards banquet held each April.
Delta Psi Omega funds go directly to the students in the form of tuition scholarships and theatre activities, including the New York Theatre Honors Tour each March.
Mailing List
If you are interested in receiving additional information about Studio 84 Productions and upcoming performances, please contact Craig Smith at Smithc@SCF.edu
