MESA, Ariz. -- Nov. 20, 2024 -- In their role as dramaturg for Mesa Community College’s production of the play “Appropriate,” Thunderbird Theatre student Ransom Allen combined a love for theater with a passion for sociology, adding Talkback sessions with sociology and education faculty following upcoming performances and bringing elements of the play into classrooms.

On stage Nov. 22 Dec. 7, 2024, the Tony Award-winning play “Appropriate” tells the powerful story of an Arkansas family confronting their inheritance, a plantation with all its troubling history.

“I am going to a handful of class sessions with an actor to perform a snippet of the play for the class to watch,” explained Allen. “Then I have a series of questions to facilitate a discussion of the play's topics and the connection to societal issues of today. My goal is to bring the play to people outside of the theatre building and focus on a student-led discussion.”

The post-show Talkback discussions will be held immediately after each performance. Faculty members participating as facilitators and chosen for their expertise and lived experiences include Rod Golden, sociology; Mona Scott-Figueroa, sociology/ethnic studies; Pedro Rodriguez, sociology/history; Tawn Hauptli, education; and Paul Harasha, sociology. The Talkbacks focusing on the play’s complex themes will allow the audience to share their viewpoints and discuss the play’s themes.

Mace Archer, MCC Theatre faculty and director of “Appropriate” said, “Mesa Community College offers the East Valley a wealth of artistic exhibits and performances as well as professional learning opportunities for our students. Adding the Talkback sessions with faculty members from across disciplines enriches the theatre-going experience, giving voice to many.”

Artistically, “Appropriate” holds a special place in the departmental season, with all the visual elements designed by current MCC students. Scenery, costumes, lighting, sound, props and make-up are featured student work, building on the department’s commitment to hands-on student learning.

Performances will be in the MCC Theatre, 1833 W. Southern Ave., Mesa. Tickets are $10/$13. Reservations and details are available at mesacc.edu/arts/event/2024-11/appropriate.

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Media contact: Dawn Zimmer, dawn.zimmer@mesacc.edu, 480-461-7892

Mesa Community College is nationally recognized for university transfer, career and technical programs, civic engagement, service-learning and innovative approaches to education. Host to more than 24,400 students annually, MCC offers degree and certificate programs at its two campuses and additional locations. On average MCC students provide 23,000 hours of community service annually. For more than 50 years, the college has served as a resource for education, workforce development and lifelong learning. MCC is transforming student success through Guided Pathways with Integrated Support Services and a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. MCC is a Hispanic Serving Institution. Nearly 50% of MCC students are the first in their families to attend college. MCC has the largest indigenous student population of all the Maricopa Community Colleges. The American Indian Institute serves students from 22 federally recognized Arizona tribes and out-of-state tribes. Our diverse student body includes hundreds of international students from around the world. Award-winning faculty are dedicated to student success, providing the education and training that empowers MCC students to attain their goals. Located in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona, on the traditional territories of the O'odham, Piipaash and Yavapai Peoples, MCC is one of 10 colleges in the Maricopa County Community College District. Visit mesacc.edu to learn more.

Mesa Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) -- hlcommission.org.

The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is an EEO/AA institution and an equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or national origin. A lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the career and technical education programs of the District. MCCCD does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities. For Title IX/504 concerns, call the following number to reach the appointed coordinator: (480) 731-8499. For additional information, as well as a listing of all coordinators within the Maricopa College system, visit maricopa.edu/non-discrimination.