Cowley College Puts on First Production of the Season

The recent production of The Light Princess by Emily C.A. Snyder, based on the fairy tale by George MacDonald, produced by ACT ONE, was a delightful showcase of talent and creativity, captivating young audiences and community members alike. Nearly 400 elementary students from Kansas and Oklahoma attended the matinees throughout the week, and over 100 patrons saw the public performances, representing how the show resonated with the community.

Directed entirely by students, this production highlighted the remarkable skills of the cast and crew. Rosie Mandala’s portrayal of the titular character was both enchanting and heartfelt. At the same time, Mia Anderson brought depth to the role of the Queen. The supporting cast—Sarah Sutherland as the Witch, Nathan Curran as the King, Malakai Bates as the Prince, and Price Allen as the Narrator—delivered engaging performances that brought the whimsical fairy tale to life.

Cowley Theater Director Nick Albrecht provided valuable insight into the rigorous rehearsal process, noting that the student artists committed nearly six weeks to perfecting their craft. The open audition process fostered a collaborative atmosphere, allowing the directors to align their vision with the script. Albrecht’s mentorship ensured the students developed their acting skills and learned the nuances of directing and production.

Student Directors Kaycee Schulte and Hannah Brean embraced the challenge of adapting George MacDonald’s classic tale, expertly lightening the narrative for younger audiences. Their vision shone through in the playful yet impressive storytelling, which explored themes of love and self-discovery. As they stated, this production marked a significant growth opportunity for them and the cast, and their pride in the work was evident.

The creativity and dedication of the entire cast and crew transformed the stage into a magical realm, allowing the audience to escape the weight of reality. The Light Princess was not just a performance but a celebration of youth artistry and imagination. Overall, this production was a resounding success, showcasing the exceptional talent of Cowley students.

Hunter Ferguson | Integrated Communications Specialist
Cowley College
125 S. 2nd Street
Arkansas City, KS 67005
hunter.ferguson@cowley.edu