Mission

Statement of Purpose

— to ignite an explosive engagement
between Theatre Artists and The Community —
by producing and promoting
New or Unusual Plays
that explore
The Edges
of Theatrical Style
and Human Experience
by implementing New Ways
to use The Artistry of Theatre
to engage
to enrage
and
to entertain
The Audience

History

In 1967, Mr. Kenneth Resinski came to Saint Francis as a professor and started this theatre project which has brought over 40 years of entertainment to audiences of all different generations.  Previous theatre at Saint Francis had been loose collection of shows performed by priests and students groups, but lacked a formal departmental structure.  Originally known as Enter'acte Presents, this university sponsored theatre offered a fresh outlet for talented actors at Saint Francis as well as area residents.  The theatre then changed its name to Saint Francis New Theatre and performed countless shows under this moniker.  In 2002, the theatre was renamed to STAR Productions, bringing forth the efforts we have come to know and love today.

The Acronym

The word STAR in STAR Productions is an acronym:
a word formed from the initial letter of each word in a longer phrase.

STAR:  Students — Theatre — Area Residents.
   
    Theatre at Saint Francis University has always been a combination of "town and gown."  The "town" element provided by the people who live and work in the region serviced by Saint Francis University.  The "gown" refers to  the academic regalia worn by University professors and students.  The acronym STAR captures the unique duality of Theatre at Saint Francis University.  Students of the University coupled with Area Residents, all joined and committed to learn and grow in their Theatrical Abilities.

Methods

    There is much "teaching and learning" during rehearsals and technical work sessions.  Time is utilized in a "sharing" process where information, knowledge, and understanding are exchanged and there-by development is assured.  STAR Productions works with the Beginnner to present basic techniques of acting and stage presentation: STAR Productions works with the serious seasoned Amateur and helps them to mature into accomplished Semi-Professionals.  A Semi-Professional is an individual engaging in an activity for gain, but not as a full-time occupation.  There is very little monetary payment for STAR Productions but there is Gain:  Gain in confident technique to achieve results that may edge-toward the Professional Artist of the Theatre.

Selections

   The plays chosen for STAR Productions are drawn from a wide variety of dramatic types.  No one type is dominant; however situation comedy and fluffy farce are usually minimal.  The selection is made to challenge and extend the growth process of the Artists of all ages working within the STAR Production aegis.