By Mike McDermit / Staff writer

Whether it’s writing, acting, directing, or simply watching, UPG’s first annual Red Eye project holds something for everyone interested in theater.

Red Eye is a theater project based on the idea of speed. Students who were intrigued by the thought of quick theater were giving there roles Tuesday night. After writing and rehearsing their skits, they’ll perform tonight (Thursday) in Ferguson Theater.

Usually, there are only 24 hours from the first meeting until the final performance, but with this being UPG’s first attempt at Red Eye, chief organizer Stephen Schrum, assistant professor of theatre arts, decided to allow a little more time for everyone to practice.

“Since this is the first time we are doing it, we are using a 48-hour period. However, I decided against calling it the ‘Pinkeye Project’ because that may give people the wrong impression,” said Schrum.

With the lack of a theatre workshop class this semester, Red Eye provides an opportunity for students who were looking to be involved with theatre to do so, and this time with some added incentives – the commitment time is only 48 hours and there won’t be any grading.

“If the audience approves of the work and shows that approval by its applause, the participants should be gratified that they did a good job,” said Schrum.

Schrum has faith in the participants.

“Since there is a limited time for prep, I assume the performances will be brief, but in no way limited since our students can be very creative, as I have discovered in my classes.”

Red Eye provides a crash course in time management, as well as working out the creative process in a small group. It is lighthearted, but a considerable amount of work goes into the performance.

“To do good theatre requires hard work, dedication, and discipline, and with this brief prep time, the element of hard work will come into play. With the right amount of work and application, the resulting pieces should be quite good,” said Schrum.

The Red Eye Project performance will take place tonight, Jan. 25, in Ferguson Theater at 7:30. It is open to the public and there is no cost to attend. Attending the performance counts as a Village credit.