In about two weeks, the Academic Hall will be welcoming the Unity for Action crew. They’ll be presenting their original musical, Singing It Out, that will make you think of Glee or High School Musical. I won’t tell you what the play is about, you’ll have to come see to find out! However, I got a chance to sit down and talk to the director of the play, Rebecca Mason, before their Friday night practice. Here it is!
Her Campus: Hey Rebecca! Can you tell us what Unity for Action is?
Rebecca Mason: Unity for Action is an organization that takes member’s passion to create events that will help others. We reach out to the community in a fun way.
HC: How long have you been a member of the UFA?
RM: I have been a member for almost 4 years now.
HC: What is your role within the group?
RM: The last couple years, I was a general member and I was involved with the musical. However, this year, I have a more active role. As VP of Graphic Design I’m the one behind all the posters, banners, and all.
HC: Aren’t you also the director of the play this year?
RM: Indeed, I directed my first short movie and I completely loved it. That’s why I volunteered to direct it. It’s my first time, so I don’t have much experience, but I am very passionate about it.
HC: What do you do exactly in this role?
RM: I take care of the props, the costumes, the decorations, and I make sure that everyone is on top of their game regarding their lines. However, I am not in charge of the music aspect. Our musical director, Andrea, is in charge of that.
HC: What is the most challenging part of being a director?
RM: Honestly, I think it’s keeping everything organized and everyone on track. It’s so much effort since the production counts about 15 people. There’s three days of rehearsal every week, so I have to make sure that every member is caught up on their lines, their dancing, and their signing.
HC: How many hours of work does a show like this demand?
RM: Every week, it requires 10 hours of work in the rehearsal, however everyone has to practice on their own time, especially for the choreographies. Emily, the choreographer is pretty amazing. Plus, in the days that will precede the show, we will put in extra hours of practice. There can’t be any flaws; everyone has to be in sync.
HC: What is the best part of being involved with UFA?
RM: I love working with every member and executive. We’re like a big family, and meeting all the new members this past year has been wonderful.
A picture from last year’s muscial, Behind Thoses Eyes.
HC: Which charity will the funds from the musical be going to?
RM: After a long period of time doing research, we decided to go with Operation Coming Home. We voted on it. Everyone proposed an idea, and gave details on why their idea should be chosen. The main criteria were that the charity had to be local and received no funding from the government. We can definitely say that this one really hit close to home.
HC: Has UFA organized other events to fundraise?
RM: Of course, the musical is the biggest one, but during the year, we do others small events like bake sales or tea houses. Also, at the show, there will be a silent house auction to raise more money towards the cause.
HC: What do you want to say to readers to invite them to attend the shows?
RM: It’s going to be a great night of fun and good music all for a good cause. Just come and relax.
HC: This play sends a powerful message. Tell us more about that.
RM: Indeed, every year, we want to connect with the audience by finding theme that will speak to them. This year, we are sending a message about self-acceptance and being confident in everything you do. Chase your dreams, every single one of them.
HC: Thank you for having me!
RM: No problem, it was a pleasure.
If you woud like to follow Unity for Action’s adventure, you can follow them on Facebook. If you want to come to the show, you can join their event page for tickets.
Picture credits: The pictures were taken by Ahya Kamal