On Feb. 21, Visiting Assistant Professor of Theatre Morgan Mallory conducted an experiment to determine if a theater production could be rehearsed and coordinated virtually, then performed successfully with the actors’ first in-person interaction live on stage. Mallory will present her findings, “Undetermined Predetermined Moments,” for the next Faculty Forum at 7 p.m. Monday, March 9, in Legacy Hall’s Multipurpose Room.

Mallory said that casting for both film and theater is increasingly based on virtual coordination for productions and self-taping experiences. She wanted to know if the theatrical standard of art created in the moment and the realistic chemistry between characters could be maintained if previous interaction between actors and production members had not been in person.

Mallory’s experiment was conducted live when the MSU Texas Department of Theatre presented The Last Five Years by Jason Robert Brown. Mallory, her co-star Dr. Paul Hindermith, director Dr. Charles Turley, and production staff had no in-person interaction before the one-time performance. After the show, the audience was surveyed to gauge how authentic the performances felt and how rehearsed the show seemed.

Faculty Forum is a monthly showcase for the research and creative endeavors of the MSU Texas faculty. It is an opportunity for the campus and Wichita Falls communities to learn, engage, and sometimes discuss the novel ideas and explorations of the talented individuals who teach, discover, and create at MSU Texas. Admission is free and open to all. Contact Jonathan Price by email or call 940-397-4288 for more information.