The audience hushes; the lights go out; the beat of the music fills the auditorium; the spotlight shines on Alcest, played by Pete Claridge, surrounded by girls. The mood is set as the play begins.

"The Misanthrope" was one of several PUC plays produced and directed by Mei Ann Teo, a resident artist recently hired by PUC’s English department to direct plays and teach drama classes for the newly-formed drama emphasis.

Teo, who graduated from PUC in 2002, has spent the last two years as an artistic intern at Berkeley Repertory Theatre, where she was actively involved in many aspects of professional theater. “Working with Teo is a great opportunity because not only does she direct us, but she allows us to direct as well,” says Luke Molitor, a senior English major and supporting actor in "The Misanthrope."

Students who participate in the productions are enthusiastic about the experience. Not only do they learn about acting and directing, but they learn important life skills, as well. “We develop confidence and dedication, two characteristics required when working in a play," says Molitor.

Along with the new drama emphasis, a new class was also added this fall––Bay Area Theater Season. Students attended plays in San Francisco and Berkeley, interviewing actors and artistic staff, discussing the productions and writing their own critiques.

Excitement is building for this spring’s production of "Fiddler on the Roof," which will be presented to Napa Valley audiences at the beautiful new Lincoln Theatre in Yountville. With Teo directing and associate professor of music Gennevieve Brown-Kibble as musical director, plus a creative team assembled from the entire Bay Area and a talented student corps, "Fiddler" promises to be a delight.

Performances will be held May 8 to 15. For more information, contact the English department chair, Nancy Lecourt, at 707-965-7550.