The theatre department is being taken over by students . . . at least for two hours on May 8. May Days is coming to Castleton and bringing with it two hours of student-directed, student-produced and student-written plays.

“People will enjoy every second there’s something on stage,” student Ray Charles said.

After missing a year, this year’s May Days event will mark the first time it will be produced by students. Charles and fellow student Matthew Donnelly wanted to bring the event back to Castleton and so they volunteered to run it. The duo said they wanted to “make it come alive.”

“We wanted to see good theatre written by students,” Donnelly said.

Charles and Donnelly picked six scripts that were submitted to be performed at May Days, and chose directors to lead the plays.

“I feel pretty honored and stressed out about it,” said Michelle Page, who was asked to direct one.

In an attempt to include all the arts in one show, dancers, singers, and the jazz ensemble were asked to perform. The producers are also trying to get artists to promote their art during intermission. They are hoping that others from outside the art-based majors will attend as well.

“It will take their mind of the monotony of studying for finals,” Charles said. “Hopefully they’ll be stimulated by peers to learn what their fellow peers do.”

There is also ample opportunity for those who are interested in theatre to get involved with May Days.

“It’s a great way for other actors to get a part in a play that is easier to get into than the main stage,” Catherine Eddy said.

From writing scripts to costume and prop making and acting, May Days offers a chance for those who want to get into the Castleton theater department to get their name out.

“I’d like to experience all aspects in the process,” said Normajean Huttman, who acted for past May Days and will be directing a scene in this year’s event. “It utilizes so many talents.