Over the weekend I had the opportunity to sit in on a rehearsal of one of our student-led productions, Stop Kiss. Not only did I get the chance to see these talented students and their take on Diana Son’s play, I had the privilege to talk with the director herself, Layla Beyer. Between scenes Beyer and I got to sit down and chat about the production, where I was able to get a deeper look into the world that is Stop Kiss. This dramatic-comedy-romance invites you into the journey of self-discovery and the hardships that come with embracing your true identity in a world of narrow perspectives and expectations.
Set in 1998 New York City, the play follows the story of Callie, a rather cynical and passive individual who works an “alright” job as a radio traffic reporter. However, she is hiding behind this demeanor out of fear of how others might perceive her, until she meets Sara, the new girl in town. Sara is a kindhearted yet assertive woman who knows what she wants and is not afraid to speak her mind. Having just moved in from Missouri, where she left behind a secure job and loved ones, Sara is now working as an elementary school teacher in the Bronx and is learning the ropes of the big city. Upon getting to know each other, Sara helps Callie on her journey of self-discovery, showing her that you don’t have to go through life being “alright” with things. By pushing her out of her comfort zone, Sara helps her realize that there is more value when you live your life for you, as opposed to settling out of fear, and the risks that come with it can be worth the sacrifice.
Director Layla Beyer is a senior here at F&M, with a History of Art and Architecture Major and a Theatre Minor. Beyer has participated in various theatre productions both here and before coming to F&M. From on the stage to behind the scenes, Beyer has held a number of different roles and is now president of The Green Room Theatre Club, and Stop Kiss is her directorial debut.
While talking with Beyer, she walked me through what her experience is like directing a student-led production, as well as the challenges and rewards that come with the role. “It is a lot of work, I am realizing, as a director, there’s always something to do. I have never been a part of a production that’s smooth sailing, but this has been enjoyable nonetheless.” Beyer expresses how she feels this production is sort of like her senior project and how she wanted to not only try something new, but find something that meant something to her on a more personal level. “One of the things that drew me to it was Callie, I had a connection with that character. I think this might really relate to many people, especially students.” Through this production, Beyer wants to address that despite these hardships, she hopes that this play helps encourage people to live their truth and embrace authenticity no matter the outcome. When asked how she would describe this production, she says, “I like to say it’s a heart warming, non-linear love story that tells a story of what it’s like to be out in the world and in society. That it is not all happy go lucky”
Having the opportunity to take a look behind the scenes, I was able to see the passion and heart that was put into this production. All the hard work each member of the group poured into this piece is truly evident, making it all the more genuine and authentic. As Beyer said; “Recognize that this is all us, that we’re doing this for our love of theater!”
The Green Room Theatre Club’s production of Stop Kiss is running Friday November 6 through Sunday November 8, located in The Other Room Theatre on 715 N Pine St. Be sure to catch this stunning production and show some support to our fellow students and all the hard work they put into making this production happen!
Freshman Kalin Almanzar is a Contributing Writer. Her email is Kalmanza@fandm.edu.