After four long years of planning, designing, and balancing his idea, senior Joshua Morris is finally opening his senior project this weekend. “Every Brilliant Thing,” is a performance based on the book by Duncan Macmillan and Jonny Donahoe, which follows an unnamed protagonist in hopes of making a number lists of “every brilliant thing” that makes life worth living so they can make their mother feel better. The minimal set design leaves actors to fill the stage with their performances and voices, relying on their ability to take up space in the absence of a set.
Morris is a musical theatre major with a passion for directing, so designing his senior project to reflect his abilities has been his top priority. He got his first shot at directing last semester with the SC One Acts, where it was obvious that Josh had a special talent/eye for helping create a story and bringing it to life.
“Josh is an incredible performer. You can always count on Josh to fully become his character, shock the audience with the splits, and defy gravity onstage,” said fellow actor Rachel Thompson.
Morris has performed in six plays and five musicals total while attending Sterling College, including many one-acts and special senior performances.
“My favorite show was probably Newsies, mostly for the experience of it all and the great time I got to have with my friends,” said Morris.
The Sterling College theater department provides students with focused study in theatre history, criticism, literature, design and advanced performance, and production including acting, stagecraft, and directing. Morris, following his love for musical theatre, has taken every opportunity to grow his creative skills in each performance.
“I like SC Theater for everyone’s dedication to putting on the best show we can while keeping a positive and uplifting environment for each other,” said Morris.
Morris played a major role in his performances on the Sterling College stage, where his experience will lead him to take an acting career in the future. Whether it’s in the big leagues or the small-town stage, Morris keeps his head high for any potential grab in an acting role.
“My plans after college are to find work in the Chicago area, but as long as I get to keep doing what I love it doesn’t matter where I am,” said Morris.
Come see Morris’ senior project, “Every Brilliant Thing,” on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 pm in Upper Wilson!
Sterling College Observer 