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 (MCC) is nationally recognized for its excellence in university transfer, career and technical programs, civic engagement, and innovative education. Serving over 25,500 students annually, MCC offers a range of degree and certificate programs across its two campuses and additional locations. MCC students contribute more than 8,500 hours of community service annually. For nearly 60 years, MCC has been a key resource for education, workforce development, and lifelong learning. The college enhances student success through Guided Pathways with Integrated Support Services and is dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion. A Hispanic Serving Institution, nearly 50% of MCC students are first-generation college attendees, and it boasts the largest indigenous student population among Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) colleges. The MCC American Indian Institute supports students from 22 Arizona tribes and additional out-of-state tribes. MCC's diverse student body includes hundreds of international students. Our award-winning faculty are committed to helping students achieve their goals through high-quality education and training. Located in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona, on the traditional lands of the O'odham, Piipaash, and Yavapai Peoples, MCC is one of 10 MCCCD colleges. Learn more at mesacc.edu.

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

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