UIS Theatre to live stream performances of John Patrick Shanley’s “Rogues’ Gallery”

The University of Illinois Springfield’s Theatre Program is proving that the show must go on, even during a pandemic, by live streaming six performances of John Patrick Shanley’s “Rogues’ Gallery” for free online.

Live streamed performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6, 7, 12, 13 & 14 and 2 p.m. Nov. 8.

In order to watch a free performance, you must reserve a ticket at UISpac.com/events/rogues-gallery-uis-theatre or visit the UIS Ticket Office, located on the second level of the Public Affairs Center, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday or call 217-206-6160.

“Rogues’ Gallery” is a collection of monologues from the imagination of Pulitzer Prize–winner John Patrick Shanley that delves into the allure of bad behavior and the absurdity of being human.

“Ten magnetic characters. Ten bizarre, explosive, and darkly humorous stories,” is how Dramatists Play Service describes the production.

“Rogues’ Gallery” is directed by UIS Theatre Professor Eric Thibodeaux-Thompson. UIS Associate Professor of Theatre Dathan Powell serves as the scenic designer and technical director. 

Cast members include UIS students Jenna Fleming, Regina Ivy, Will Moffett and Nia Tiller, along with community member Rich McCoy.

The crew is made up of UIS students Sierra Buske, Ryan Cour, Chip Deiss, Megan Doan, Makai Grant, Molly Harms, Sally Hixon, (Na)Kaya Hughes, Claire Larson, Charlotte Medina, Jordyn Pate, Michael Smothers and Jack Tadla. UIS staff members on the crew include Janet Ferry-Campbell, Sabrina Holmes, Michael Taylor and Mark Verduin.

For more information, contact Eric Thibodeaux-Thompson at 217-206-6613 or ethib1@uis.edu.

Prospective students are invited to Preview UIS on Feb. 17

The University of Illinois Springfield is hosting Preview UIS from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 17 (Presidents Day). UIS was recently ranked the top public regional university in Illinois by U.S. News and World Report.

Prospective freshman, transfer, graduate, international and online students and their guests are welcome at the free event. All students may apply for admission to UIS free of charge for the summer and fall 2020 terms.

Attendees will meet UIS faculty, tour facilities, learn about academic programs, admission, financial aid and merit scholarships. The event will also highlight art programs, athletics, student groups and UIS’ commitment to student success.

Preview UIS will also offer resources for adult learners, spotlighting benefits, such as evening, online, and part-time classes; graduate certificates; family housing; teacher certification and educator endorsement options.

RSVPS are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Other upcoming Preview UIS days include Saturday, March 28 and Thursday, July 23.

For more information on Preview UIS or to RSVP, visit go.uis.edu/visit or call the UIS Office of Admission at 217-206-4847.

Businesses and organizations are invited take part in Career Connections Expo at UIS

Businesses and organizations are encouraged to register now for the Career Connections Expo at the University of Illinois Springfield. The Expo will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6, 2020 at the Recreation and Athletic Center (TRAC) on the UIS campus. In addition to the Expo, registered employers are invited to participate in a pre-Expo networking event known as Coffee and Conversation which will give them the opportunity to connect with faculty and staff before the Expo gets underway.

The annual event is being hosted by UIS and Lincoln Land Community College and is intended to bring students, alumni, community members and employers together to discuss career opportunities and build professional connections. Organizations who are recruiting candidates for job and internship opportunities are invited to participate in the event. The event has an average attendance of more than 300 students, alumni and community members and more than 120 employer participants.

Table assignments will be made on a first-come, first-served basis. Employers are encouraged to register as soon as possible as space is limited. The preferred deadline to register is on or before Jan. 24, 2020.

Employers can register for the Expo through the UIS Career Development Center’s online system called “CareerConnect” accessible at uis.edu/career. The “CareerConnect” system allows employers to establish a company profile and post career opportunities at no cost. UIS students and alumni are then able to view and apply for positions directly through the system.

For more information or to register for the event, contact the UIS Career Development Center at 217-206-6508 or employerrelations@uis.edu.

UIS Theatre to present six performances of “God of Carnage” by Yasmina Reza

The University of Illinois Springfield Theatre Program will present six performances of “God of Carnage” by Yasmina Reza opening on Friday, Oct. 25 in the Studio Theatre, on the lower level of the Public Affairs Center at UIS.

All shows will begin at 7:30 p.m., except the Sunday performance (Oct. 27), which will begin at 2 p.m. Opening weekend performance dates include Oct. 25-27. The following week, the play will be performed on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1-2.

In “God of Carnage,” a playground altercation between 11-year-old boys brings together two sets of Brooklyn parents for a meeting to resolve the matter.

“At first, diplomatic niceties are observed, but as the meeting progresses, and the rum flows, tensions emerge and the gloves come off, leaving the couples with more than just their liberal principles in tatters,” describes Dramatist’s Publishing Company.

“God of Carnage” is the winner of the 2009 Tony Award for best play. According to the New York Times, the play is “a study in the tension between civilized surface and savage instinct, this play is itself a satisfyingly primitive entertainment.”

UIS Associate Professor and Director of Theatre Eric Thibodeaux-Thompson will direct the production with scenic design by UIS Associate Professor of Theatre Dathan Powell.

Cast members include UIS students Ivy Thomas, Will Moffett and Jenna Fleming, along with community member Sam Fogleman.

The production staff includes UIS students Alex Herter, Amirah Baker, Aaliyah Adams, Adrian Ishmael, Jonathan Strepek, Claire Larson, Franklin Aguilar, Sierra Buske and Alyssa Nino. UIS staff members Sabrina Holmes and Chip Deiss are also part of the production staff along with community members Cassie Reiterman, Janet Ferry-Campbell and Mary Wheeler.

Ticket prices are $15 for adults; $10 for UIS faculty/staff with a valid, current i-card; and $8 for UIS students with a valid, current i-card. Please note that service charges are not included in the prices above.

Tickets can be purchased between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday-Friday at the UIS Ticket Office, located on the second level of the UIS Public Affairs Center. Patrons may call the UIS Ticket Office at 217-206-6160 or visit uis.edu/theatre for more information.

UIS Theatre presents Sarah Ruhl’s "Dead Man’s Cell Phone" opening April 12

The Theatre Program at the University of Illinois Springfield will present Sarah Ruhl’s “Dead Man’s Cell Phone” opening Friday, April 12.

Six performances will be presented in the Studio Theatre, on the lower level of the Public Affairs Center at UIS. All shows will begin at 7:30 p.m., except the Sunday performance (April 14), which will begin at 2 p.m. Show dates include Friday, Saturday, Sunday, April 12, 13, 14 and Thursday, Friday, Saturday, April 18, 19, 20.

According to the Samuel French Play Service, “Dead Man’s Cell Phone” is “a work about how we memorialize the dead–and how that remembering changes us–it is the odyssey of a woman forced to confront her own assumptions about morality, redemption, and the need to connect in a technologically obsessed world.” The play begins with “an incessantly ringing cell phone in a quiet café, a stranger at the next table who has had enough, and a dead man–with a lot of loose ends.”

The play was written by MacArthur “Genius” Grant recipient and Pulitzer Prize finalist Sarah Ruhl. Among her most popular plays are “Eurydice,” “The Clean House,” and “In the Next Room.”

Eric Thibodeaux-Thompson, UIS associate professor and director of theatre, will direct the production with scenic design by guest artist scenic designer Bobbie Bonebrake.

Cast members include UIS students Katie Simpson, Sherri Mitchell, Claire Starling and Kov Magana, along with UIS staff member Mike Krcil and community member Sam Fogleman.

The production staff includes UIS students Jeff Nevins, Claire Larson, Denise Gibson, Kim Riddle, Chip Deiss, Alyssa Nino, Jack Hulvey and Jacara Brown. UIS staff members Sabrina Holmes, Jeff Sudduth, Janet Campbell and Nikkie Stefan are also part of the production staff along with community members Cassie Reiterman and Laura Allison Maruna.

Ticket prices are $14 for adults; $12 for senior citizens (65 or older with a picture I.D.); $10 for UIS Faculty/Staff; $8 for UIS students (and all other college-level students) with a valid, current i-card or college I.D. card; and $6 for 17 and under. Please note that service charges are not included in the prices above.

The UIS Theatre Box Office is open Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Visual and Performing Arts Building (VPA 127). Patrons may call the UIS Theatre Box Office at 217/206-PLAY (7529) or visit www.uis.edu/theatre to purchase tickets online or learn more information.

UIS Visual Arts Program to present multiple exhibits featuring alumni and students’ work

The University of Illinois Springfield Visual Arts Program will present multiple exhibits featuring the work of its alumni and current students. All exhibits will open on Thursday, April 18, and run through Thursday, May 9, 2019. A reception for the alumni and student exhibits will take place simultaneously from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, April 25, 2019 in the UIS Visual Arts Gallery and the Access Gallery. A shuttle will provide transportation between the two locations. Both exhibits are free and open to the public.

Alumni exhibit “Perfect Tens” 

“Perfect Tens” features the work of ten UIS Visual Arts Program alumni, selected from the past ten years of graduates. The artwork will be displayed in the UIS Visual Arts Gallery, located in the Health and Science Building, Room 201. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

A perfect ten indicates a high score, or perfected condition. Visual Arts Program exhibiting alumni in “Perfect Tens” are artists that have continued their trajectory in visual arts and demonstrate notable skill, growth and sophistication in their work. The UIS Visual Arts Program faculty have selected and invited these ten exhibiting artists, as a reflection of the Visual Arts Program and to celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates.

“Perfect Tens” will feature a range of media that will include painting, video, sculpture and ceramics, among others. Exhibiting artists include Brad Balster (2012), Christina Hanula (2017), Judah Johnson (2011), Skan Jolly (2012), Grace Katalinich (2017), Allan J. Masterson (2013), Abigail McKinnie (2018), Tyler Phibbs (2016), Almendra Rodriguez (2017) and Darrin Simmons (2016).

Student exhibits “(un)noticeable” and “Forthcoming” 

Two student exhibits “(un)noticeable” and “Forthcoming” will be presented in the UIS Access Gallery, located in the Visual and Performing Arts Building (VPA). Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

“(un)noticeable” features work by UIS Visual Arts graduating senior Tyrone Burnett. The exhibit explores the idea of a man who notices the things that are not seen. The exhibit will feature ceramic sculptures that give form to humans as emotions, stereotypes and experiences. Burnett uses symbols to represent both good and bad emotions that humans cannot see or understand, dealing with the idea of fearing what you can become.

Held in conjunction, “Forthcoming”, curated by Tyrone Burnett, will feature work by UIS students Cameron Seibert, Zoey Pritchett, Cheyenne Drink and Hasani Cannon. This exhibit will feature ceramics, painting, drawing and mixed media.

For more information on the multiple exhibits, contact the UIS Visual Arts Program at 217/206-6240 or art@uis.edu.

UIS Student Technology, Arts & Research Symposium to showcase research, creativity and innovation

WHAT: The University of Illinois Springfield presents the 8th annual Student Technology, Arts & Research Symposium (STARS). The three-day event showcases student research and creative activities during the academic year. Events are free and open to the public, unless otherwise noted.

WHEN: 4 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17
            5 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, April 18
            9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, April 19

WHERE: UIS campus – with various presentations in the Student Union, Public Affairs Center and Brookens Auditorium

DETAILS: UIS undergraduate and graduate students will present their research and creative activities through short talks, poster presentations, art exhibitions, musical and theatrical performances. The symposium gives the community a chance to learn about the variety of work being done by students and gives businesses the opportunity to network with potential new talent.

Wednesday, April 17

• Business students will present their pitches and oral presentations starting at 4 p.m. in the Public Affairs Center.
• UIS faculty members Peter Boltuc (Philosophy) and Elham Khorasani Buxton (Computer Science) will present an Artificial Intelligence Workshop at 5:30 p.m. in Brookens Auditorium.
• Keynote Speaker David Gunkel, a professor at Northern Illinois University, will speak at 6 p.m. in Brookens Auditorium on “How to Survive the Robot Apocalypse.” Gunkel is an award-winning educator and scholar, specializing in the philosophy of technology with a particular focus on information & communication technology. 

Thursday, April 18

• The Launch of the “Alchemist Review”, a literary journal, takes place in Brookens Auditorium at 5 p.m.
• Amina Gautier, author of three short story collections and winner of the Flannery O’Connor Award, will be reading her fiction work at 6 p.m. in Brookens Auditorium.
• UIS Theatre, in the Dept. of Art, Music, and Theatre, presents “Dead Man’s Cell Phone,” a play by Sarah Ruhl, at 7:30 p.m., in the Studio Theatre, followed by a talk-back at approximately 9:30 p.m. Ticket prices are $14 for adults, $12 for senior citizens (65 or older with a picture I.D.), $10 for UIS faculty/staff, $8 for UIS students (and all other college-level students). Purchase tickets by calling 217/206-PLAY (7529) or visit www.uis.edu/theatre.

Friday, April 19

• Student oral presentations will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. in the Student Union second floor conference rooms.
• Art and poster sessions will take place from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Student Union pre-function area.
• A UIS Music Recital, featuring the UIS Jazz Band, will close out the symposium at 1 p.m. in the Student Union Ballroom. 

For the full STARS schedule, visit http://go.uis.edu/stars/. Questions may be directed to Tammy Craig at 217/206-8379 or STARSymposium@uis.edu.

UIS Health & Wellness Fair to offer free health screenings and information

WHAT: University of Illinois Springfield Campus Recreation and Health Services presents the annual Health & Wellness Fair. The event will offer health screenings, information and door prizes. The fair is free and open to the public, students, faculty and staff.

WHEN: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 10, 2019

WHERE: The Recreation and Athletic Center (TRAC) at UIS
2171 University Drive, Springfield

DETAILS: The Health & Wellness Fair will offer information targeting all aspects of wellness: physical, nutritional, emotional, social, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational and spiritual. There will be fitness testing, health screenings, free food and giveaways.

The Central Illinois Community Blood Center will also be hosting a blood drive from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Recreation and Athletic Center (TRAC) for those interested in donating or blood typing.

For more information, contact Alexandria Cosner, UIS Campus Recreation assistant director of fitness & wellness, at acosn2@uis.edu or 217/206-7103

UIS students to hold a Dance Marathon to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network

WHAT: Students at the University of Illinois Springfield will hold a Dance Marathon as part of a fundraising campaign for the Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) at HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital in Springfield. Members of the public are invited to participate.

WHEN: 2 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, March 23, 2019

WHERE: UIS Student Union Ballroom, 2251 Richard Wright Drive, Springfield

DETAILS: Participants can sign up for the Dance Marathon as an individual or as part of a team with a fundraising goal. Anyone is welcome to participate and can register online at https://go.uis.edu/dm2019 or at the event. Participants pay a $10 registration fee and are asked to fundraise at least $20 by March 23.

The Dance Marathon will feature fun music, a variety of performances by different organizations and food. The theme for this year’s Dance Marathon is Olympics. Various games will be hosted throughout the night to make the event fun and engaging.

Six local families who have benefited from the Children’s Miracle Network at HSHS St. John’s Hospital will share their stories starting at 2:30 p.m.

UIS students have been raising money for the campaign throughout the year. Over the past five years, the event has raised more than $25,000 for the Children’s Miracle Network.

UIS to host the Career Connections Expo for students, alumni and community members

WHAT: University of Illinois Springfield and Lincoln Land Community College are excited to announce the 2019 Career Connections Expo. Community members, students and alumni from the hosting institutions and other colleges as well as community members are invited to attend the free event. The Expo is supported by advantage partners including Northwestern Mutual, NPR Illinois, MSF&W Inc., Omniskope and Wise Equation Solutions Inc.

WHEN: Thursday, February 14, 2019, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

WHERE: The Recreation and Athletic Center (TRAC) on the UIS campus

DETAILS: The Expo is designed to help attendees make professional connections, find jobs and internships and explore career paths. For potential employers, it is a chance to disseminate pertinent information and to develop a pool of candidates interested in current or future career opportunities.

Representatives from more than 100 organizations are expected to be on hand. The event has an average attendance of more than 300 students, alumni and community members.

Information for students, alumni and others: Pre-registration is not required, business-casual attire is required (NO jeans) and participants should bring copies of their resume to the Expo.

Information for employers: Advance registration is required. Booth space will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration is available online at www.uis.edu/career.

For more information, or to register, contact the Career Development Center at 217/206-6508.

Businesses and organizations are invited take part in Career Connections Expo at UIS

Businesses and organizations are encouraged to register now for the Career Connections Expo at the University of Illinois Springfield. The Expo will be held on Thursday, February 14, 2019, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Recreation and Athletic Center (TRAC) on the UIS campus. In addition to the Expo, registered employers are invited to participate in a pre-Expo networking event known as Coffee and Conversation which will give them the opportunity to connect with faculty and staff before the Expo gets underway.

The annual event is being hosted by UIS and Lincoln Land Community College and is intended to bring students, alumni, community members and employers together to discuss career opportunities and build professional connections. Organizations who are recruiting candidates for job and internship opportunities are invited to participate in the event. The event has an average attendance of more than 300 students, alumni and community members and more than 120 employer participants.

Table assignments will be made on a first-come, first-served basis. Employers are encouraged to register as soon as possible as space is limited. The preferred deadline to register is on or before February 4, 2019.

Employers can register for the Expo through the UIS Career Development Center’s online system called “CareerConnect” accessible at www.uis.edu/career. The “CareerConnect” system allows employers to establish a company profile and post career opportunities at no cost. UIS students and alumni are then able to view and apply for positions directly through the system.

For more information or to register for the event, contact the UIS Career Development Center at 217-206-6508 or employerrelations@uis.edu.

UIS Theatre to produce Lauren Gunderson’s play “Silent Sky”

The Theatre Program at the University of Illinois Springfield will present Lauren Gunderson’s play “Silent Sky” opening Friday, October 19.

Six performances will be presented in the Studio Theatre, on the lower level of the Public Affairs Center at UIS, on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Oct. 19, 20, 21 and Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Oct. 25, 26, 27. All shows will begin at 7:30 p.m., except the Sunday performance (Oct. 21), which will begin at 2 p.m.

The play chronicles the life of Henrietta Swan Leavitt and the real women "computers" working at the dawn of modern astronomy. “Silent Sky” is a celestial romance and true story of discovery.

According to Dramatists Play Service, “When Henrietta Leavitt begins work at the Harvard Observatory in the early 1900s, she isn’t allowed to touch a telescope or express an original idea. Instead, she joins a group of women ‘computers,’ charting the stars for a renowned astronomer who calculates projects in ‘girl hours’ and has no time for the women’s probing theories. As Henrietta, in her free time, attempts to measure the light and distance of stars, she must also take measure of her life on Earth, trying to balance her dedication to science with family obligations and the possibility of love. The true story of 19th-century astronomer Henrietta Leavitt explores a woman’s place in society during a time of immense scientific discoveries, when women’s ideas were dismissed until men claimed credit for them. Social progress, like scientific progress, can be hard to see when one is trapped among earthly complications; Henrietta Leavitt and her female peers believe in both, and their dedication changed the way we understand both the heavens and Earth.”

Missy Thibodeaux-Thompson, UIS associate professor of theatre, will direct the production. Dathan Powell, UIS associate professor of theatre, will be the scenic designer and technical director. UIS Theatre student and Sangamon Auditorium stage hand David Hecht is the lighting designer. There are two guest artists involved in this production: Dave Cain of UMedia is the sound designer and Lauren Lowell, associate professor of costume design at Illinois State University, is the costume designer.

The cast includes UIS students Dominique Abiagom, Ethan Heilman, Shea Lanier and Sherri Mitchell with community member Ashley Pruitt playing the role of Henrietta Leavitt. UIS students Aislinn Diaz and Katie Simpson serve as understudies.

Ticket prices are $14 for adults; $12 for senior citizens (65 or older with a picture I.D.); $10 for UIS Faculty/Staff; $8 for UIS students (and all other college-level students) with a valid, current i-card or college I.D. card; and $6 for 17 and under. Please note that service charges are not included in the prices above.

The UIS Theatre Box Office is open Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Visual and Performing Arts Building (VPA 127). Patrons may call the UIS Theatre Box Office at 217/206-PLAY (7529) or visit www.uis.edu/theatre to purchase tickets online or learn more information.

UIS Speaker Series presents two free workshop on “Leading from the Middle”

WHAT: The University of Illinois Springfield Engaged Citizenship Common Experience (ECCE) Speaker Series will present two free workshop on “Leading from the Middle” taught by Kevin Purcell, a UIS adjunct faculty member and retired Microsoft senior manager of organization development.

WHEN:
Thursday, Oct. 4, 2018, at 6 p.m.
Public Affairs Center Rooms C/D

Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2018, at 6 p.m.
Sangamon Auditorium Lobby

DETAILS: Middle positions are those in which supervisors, middle managers, coaches, deans, department heads and others must function between the conflicting perspectives and demands of those above and below them. The “Leading from the Middle” workshops will provide specific leadership tips for each level of any human system and illuminate possibilities for change that empowered “middles” can make in organizations.

Participants will be divided into tops, middles, bottoms and customers and lead through two separate organization simulations. A debrief and a short lecture based on the principles of Power and Systems founder, Barry Oshry, will follow.

Purcell is a prominent UIS alum. He has been an adjunct faculty in the UIS College of Business since 2008. He has done consulting work with the Gates Foundation and Memorial Health Systems of Central Illinois.

The workshops are free and open to UIS students and the public. However, registration is required for the workshops. Participants may register online for the Oct. 4 workshop at https://go.uis.edu/Oct4 and at https://go.uis.edu/Oct24 for the Oct. 24 workshop.

Individuals with disabilities who anticipate the need for accommodations should contact the UIS Speaker Series Office at 217/206-8507 or speakerseries@uis.edu in advance. For a list of other upcoming ECCE Speaker Series events, visit www.uis.edu/speakerseries/.

Third annual UIS Prairie Star 5K run/walk to raise money for the local Girls on the Run non-profit

WHAT: The University of Illinois Springfield will hold the third annual Prairie Star 5K run/walk to raise money for Girls on the Run of Central Illinois, a local non-profit organization. The Prairie Star 5K run/walk is open to UIS students, faculty, staff and community members.

WHEN: Saturday, September 8, 2018, at 8:30 a.m.

WHERE: The Recreation and Athletic Center (TRAC) on the UIS campus

DETAILS: The flat and fast race course will begin outside of The Recreation and Athletic Center (TRAC) and go east along scenic University Drive before entering the heart of campus. The race will end near TRAC on Eliza Farnham Drive where door prizes and awards will be distributed.

This year’s race will benefit Girls on the Run of Central Illinois, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring third through eighth grade girls to be joyful, healthy and confident. The 20-lesson Girls on the Run curriculum combines training for a 5K (3.1 miles) running event with lessons that inspire girls to become independent thinkers, enhance their problem solving skills and make healthy decisions.

The cost to register for the Prairie Star 5K run/walk is $8 for UIS students and $13 for faculty, staff, alumni and community. Registration is available online at www.uis.edu/campusrec/. You may also call 217/206-7103 or stop by TRAC in person to register for the race.

The deadline to register for the race and be guaranteed a t-shirt is Tuesday, Sept. 4 at 12 p.m. Participants may also register on the day of the race from 7:30 to 8 a.m., however they are not guaranteed a t-shirt. The run/walk is sponsored by UIS Campus Recreation, the Legion of Ladies student organization, UIS Cross Country and Track & Field, Chick-fil-A, SCHEELS, Noodles & Company and Stokes Race Timing Services.

For more information, contact Alexandria Cosner, UIS assistant director of fitness and wellness, at 217/206-8400 or acosn2@uis.edu.

UIS Visual Arts Gallery exhibit “Essence” to feature the work of graduating students

The University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) Visual Arts Gallery is proud to present “Essence”, an exhibition showcasing the creativity and skill sets of the senior Visual Arts majors at UIS. The exhibit will open on Monday, April 23, 2018 and run through Thursday, May 10, 2018. The reception will be held on Thursday, May 3, 2018, from 6 to 8 p.m. All gallery events are free and open to the public.

“Essence” spans two campus locations: the UIS Visual Arts Gallery, located in the Health & Sciences Building, room 201, and the Access Gallery, located in the Visual & Performing Arts Building central lobby. A shuttle will be available to transport attendees between the two locations during the reception.

Featuring multi-media works produced by the UIS Visual Arts graduating seniors, “Essence” explores the personal awareness of relationships — with nature, individual experience, historical context, or atmosphere. Exhibiting artists include Amber Buscher, Amanda Helm, Sam Helm, Abbi McKinnie, Tristen Sitko, Madison Tucker and Amanda Zoschke. This exhibition will feature ceramics, painting, digital media, photography, animation, installation and mixed media.

Each of the student artists have created works that collectively strive to transport the viewer, inviting individuals to immerse themselves and recognize not only how our surroundings affect our emotions, but also how individuals affect the environment.

The Visual Arts Gallery is open Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Access Gallery is open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For more information, visit the UIS Visual Arts Gallery website at www.uis.edu/visualarts/gallery or contact the gallery at 217/206-6506 or alach@uis.edu.

UIS’ Gamma Phi Omega Chi Chapter to host an American Diabetes Association walk on campus

WHAT: University of Illinois Springfield students who are part of the Gamma Phi Omega International Sorority, Inc. Chi Chapter will host an American Diabetes Association walk on campus in hopes of raising $3,000 for the association. Members of the Springfield community are encouraged to participate, along with UIS students, faculty and staff.

WHEN: Saturday, April 14, 2018, at 9:30 a.m.

WHERE: UIS Colonnade & Quad

DETAILS: The American Diabetes Association is Gamma Phi Omega International Sorority, Inc.’s national philanthropy. More than 30 million Americans live with diabetes in America today, and 1.5 million more will be diagnosed with diabetes this year. The money raised from the walk will help with research for a cure for diabetes, as well as providing funding for preventative aids and community support.

Anyone interested in participating can register for the walk at www.bit.ly/UISGPhiOADAWalk. A registration fee of $5 should be added to the donation section of the online registration form. There will also be open registration from 8 to 9:30 a.m. the morning of the walk.

Questions about the walk may be directed to Abbegayle Stevenson with the Gamma Phi Omega Chi Chapter by email at uis@gammaphiomega.org.

UIS Health & Wellness Fair to offer free health screenings and information

WHAT: University of Illinois Springfield Campus Recreation and Health Services presents the annual Health & Wellness Fair. The event will offer health screenings, information and door prizes. The fair is free and open to the public, students, faculty and staff.

WHEN: Wednesday, April 18, 2018, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

WHERE: The Recreation and Athletic Center (TRAC) at UIS,  2171 University Drive, Springfield

DETAILS: The Health & Wellness Fair will offer information targeting all aspects of wellness: physical, nutritional, emotional, social, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational and spiritual. There will be fitness testing, health screenings, free food and giveaways.

The Central Illinois Community Blood Center will also be hosting a blood drive from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Recreation and Athletic Center (TRAC) for those interested in donating or blood typing.

For more information, contact Alexandria Cosner, UIS Campus Recreation assistant director of fitness & wellness, at acosn2@uis.edu or 217/206-7103

UIS Theatre to produce Luigi Pirandello’s play “Six Characters in Search of an Author”

The Theatre Program at the University of Illinois Springfield will present Robert Brustein’s adaptation of the Luigi Pirandello play “Six Characters in Search of an Author” opening Friday, April 13.

Six performances will be presented in the Studio Theatre, on the lower level of the Public Affairs Center at UIS, on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, April 13, 14, 15 and Thursday, Friday, Saturday, April 19, 20, 21. All shows will begin at 7:30 p.m., except the Sunday performance (April 15), which will begin at 2 p.m.

Eric Thibodeaux-Thompson, UIS associate professor and director of theatre, will direct the production. Dathan Powell, UIS assistant professor of theatre, will be the scenic designer and technical director.

Originally written in 1921, “Six Characters in Search of an Author” is an absurdist metatheatrical play. UIS Theatre will produce the 1998 Robert Brustein adaptation, which has been described by publisher Samuel French as a “highly acclaimed adaption of Pirandello’s masterpiece, a study in illusion and reality which follows a group of characters who try to fashion their life stories into acceptable drama.”

During the play, a group of theatre artists rehearse a known play and get interrupted by six characters from another play, which was never finished by its author. These six characters find themselves in a purgatory of sorts, trying to find a “home” for their stories to live in. Pirandello’s play reminds us that all great art takes on a life of its own, after being created, and we are challenged to find meaningful difference between a work-in-progress and its eventual effects on audience members.

The cast includes UIS students Katie Brethorst, Kat Pruitt, Kov Magana, Mohan Gutta, Chris Vemagiri Marbaniang, Sherri Mitchell and Katie Simpson, along with UIS alumni Blake Detherage, Tom Hutchison and Dwight Langford and community members Sean McCord, Grace Klenke, Avery Biggs and Melissa Betty.

Ticket prices are $14 for adults; $12 for senior citizens (65 or older with a picture I.D.); $10 for UIS Faculty/Staff; $8 for UIS students (and all other college-level students) with a valid, current i-card or college I.D. card; and $6 for 17 and under. Please note that service charges are not included in the prices above.

The new UIS Theatre Box Office is open Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Visual and Performing Arts Building (VPA 127). Patrons may call the UIS Theatre Box Office at 217/206-PLAY (7529) or visit www.uis.edu/theatre to purchase tickets online or learn more information.

UIS Music Program presents Spring Showcase Concert on April 6

WHAT: The University of Illinois Springfield Music Program presents its Spring Showcase concert featuring performances by the UIS Orchestra, UIS Chorus and UIS Band. The performance is free and open to the public.

WHEN: Friday, April 6, 2018, at 7:30 p.m.

WHERE: Sangamon Auditorium, located in the Public Affairs Center

DETAILS: The event will feature a wide array of music including the first movement of Beethoven’s famous Symphony No. 5, a collaboration between the UIS Orchestra and Chorus by George Gershwin and a set of American-themed pieces for band. This concert will also feature UIS Music Soloist Competition winners Natalie Kerr and Samantha Hwang, performing their violins with orchestra, and Kimberly Nu-tall, singing with the chorus.

The UIS Orchestra, under the direction of Assistant Professor of Ethnomusicology Yona Stamatis, will lead the program with music from J.S. Bach, Leroy Anderson and Ludwig van Beethoven. The orchestra line-up is a preview for the highly anticipated “Music and Comedy” concert that the group will present on April 29 at 3 p.m. in Sangamon Auditorium.

Directed by Associate Professor of Ethnomusicology Sharon Graf, the UIS Chorus will combine with the Lincoln Land Community College Choir under the direction of See Tsai Chan. They will perform a set of pop and folk song selections including Ryan Tedder’s “Counting Stars” and Redding and Cropper’s “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay”.

The UIS Band will end the program with an American theme under the direction of Applied Music Specialist Abigail Walsh. The program will begin with David Holsinger’s “American Faces” and includes excerpts from Aaron Copland’s “Appalachian Spring”, “Downton Abbey - The Suite” by John Lunn and John Philip Sousa’s famous march “Stars and Stripes Forever”.

Donations are welcome and will be used to benefit the UIS Music Student Merit Award. The UIS Music program began in 2001 and is comprised of students, faculty, staff and alumni, as well as Springfield community members, all with a variety of skill levels.

Anyone who is interested in joining the UIS chorus, band or orchestra may contact Abigail Walsh at 217/206-7549 or music@uis.edu.

UIS Student Technology, Arts & Research Symposium to showcase research, creativity and innovation

WHAT: The University of Illinois Springfield presents the 7th annual Student Technology, Arts & Research Symposium (STARS). The two-day event showcases student research and creative activities during the academic year. All events are free and open to the public.

WHEN: Thursday, April 5 from 4 to 9 p.m.
Friday, April 6 from 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

WHERE: UIS campus – with various presentations in the Student Union, Sangamon Auditorium, Public Affairs Center and Brookens Auditorium

DETAILS: UIS undergraduate and graduate students will present their research and creative activities through short talks, poster presentations, art exhibitions and musical performances. All events are free and open to the public. The symposium is also a great opportunity for businesses to explore and network with potential new talent for their organizations.

Thursday, April 5

• Student oral presentations session & student-directed play readings will take place from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Public Affairs Center
• The Launch of the “Alchemist Review”, a literary journal, takes place in Brookens Auditorium at 6 p.m.
• Keynote Speaker Chen Chen will speak at 7 p.m. in Brookens Auditorium. His A. Poulin, Jr. Poetry Prize-winning book “When I Grow Up I Want to Be a List of Further Possibilities” is longlisted for the 2017 National Book Award for poetry. He will sign books during a reception that follows his presentation.
• An open music rehearsal will be held from 8 to 9 p.m. in Sangamon Auditorium 

Friday, April 6

• Art exhibitions will be on display all day in the UIS Student Union
• Poster sessions will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Student Union
• Keynote Speaker Rashawn Ray, Ph.D., associate professor of sociology at the University of Maryland, College Park, will speak at 1 p.m. in the Student Union, as part of the Engaged Citizenship Common Experience (ECCE) Speaker Series. Ray is the author of “Race and Ethnic Relations in the 21st Century: History, Theory, Institutions, and Policy.” He will speak on the divisiveness plaguing the country and how social media seems to be used as a tool to segregate and isolate rather than unify.
• An Implicit Bias Workshop led by UIS Assistant Professor Carlee Hawkins, Ph.D. will take place from 2-3 p.m. in the Student Union, followed by a reception for Hawkins and Ray from 3 to 3:30 p.m.
• Student oral presentation sessions will continue from 3:30 to 5 p.m. in the Student Union Leadership Center
• The first annual Illinois Capital Innovation Awards Night will take place from 5:00 to 8 p.m. in the Student Union
• The UIS Spring Music Showcase concert will be held at 7:30 p.m. in Sangamon Auditorium

For the full STARS schedule, visit http://go.uis.edu/stars/. Questions may be directed to Brian Moore at 217/206-6664 or STARSymposium@uis.edu.