With over 25 student clubs, Neumann’s campus boasts plenty of opportunities for students to get involved! Through these student-led organizations, students can explore their interests with like-minded peers, meet others with similar interests, and engage in on-campus activities. One of Neumann’s youngest clubs, the Players Club, is a group of students with interests and talents in theatre.
Despite already having been an organization amongst Neumann students since 1978, the Players didn’t receive an “official” club status until 2019. Neumann Theater Professor and Players Artistic Director John Baxter leads the club, having been in this position since 2016. A Neumann graduate, Baxter has been involved in over 40 theatre productions, both as a director and performer.
Suitable for those with interests such as theater, dance, or music, the Players Club puts on two performances per school year. During the fall semester, the cast and crew perform a play. In the spring semester, students perform a musical. “We do Shakespeare every other year. The musical is a much bigger affair,” said Baxter.
Later this month, the Players will debut their latest preparation, 9 to 5. Complete with music and lyrics by Dolly Parton, 9 to 5 is a musical based on the 1980 movie of the same name.
In October, students began the audition process, with rehearsals beginning in December.
The show centers on three women who fight back against their sexist, hypocritical boss. “It’s a lot of fun. It’s been a popular choice among students,” said Baxter. Seventeen Neumann students are involved with the production: 12 acting, and 5 working backstage in the crew. Students have devoted 2.5 months to the musical production, with three rehearsals per week: one blocking rehearsal, one music rehearsal, and one choreography rehearsal.
9 to 5 will be performed on March 21-23 at 8:00 p.m., with a final performance on March 24 at 2:00 p.m. For students, admission is free on Thursday, March 21, and $5 for the March 22-24 performances. For all other attendees, admission is $10. All performances will take place on campus at the Meagher Theatre, located in Bruder.
Students interested in participating with the Players Club can follow the Players' social media, attend auditions, or email John Baxter (baxterj@neumann.edu) to get involved!
Instagram: @theneumannplayers | TikTok: @the.neumann.players
Ryen Hawkey
