Lasell University and Regis College partnered on a theatrical collaboration at the latter's Eleanor Welch Casey Theatre late last month. The joint production of Children of Eden marked the second year of partnership between the Lasell University Drama Club and Regis.

Under the inclusive and focused eye of debut director Jamie Nicole Imperato '15, the cross-campus cast explored the story of Adam and Eve (Act I) and Noah's Ark (Act II) while developing strong relationships and adding depth to their professional networks.  

"While practicing for the show, you could find cast members from each institution guest-swiping their show mates into their campus cafeterias," said Imperato.  

"We implemented a 'big and little' program this year, through which returning performers [from the first collaboration, November 2018's Footloose], adopted new cast members to bridge gaps."  

The approach was effective. Lasell cast member Emily Kulick '22 raved about the production process.  

"The combination of the cast's togetherness and Jamie's unique ability to challenge us to bring our best made this a special show," she said. "We all clicked. We are a family."  

According to Imperato, a Lasell alumnus, that strong internal foundation helped the cast to deliver the best possible product to audiences over the four-show run. Her previous work as assistant director for the Lasell University Drama Club inspired her to challenge the cast, crew, and herself to elevate the performance. To heighten production value, she enlisted the help of Lasell student Allie Doyle '20 and alumna Jaime Fortier '15 to purchase fabric, design, and craft every costume. Combined with the director's attempt to remind each audience of the elegance, grace, and beauty of humanity, the gripping performance was met with a standing ovation.    

With the production behind them, members of the cast from both institutions are restless for the opportunity to collaborate again. For them and others eager to take to the stage, good news abounds - Imperato will return to the director's chair this winter for an upcoming production of playwright Neil LaBute's Some Girls. Auditions will take place in January with the production to run from March 26 - 29 at Lasell University.