As her senior year comes to a close, Communication Arts major Sydnie Skinner is taking on the responsibility of directing the Hilltop Theatre’s production of Digging Up The Boys. With years of experience both on stage and behind the scenes, she has prepared herself for this very moment! Directing this show has become the cherry-on-top of her time at the SWOSU theatre, and the reason I chose her for this senior spotlight story.

She found her way to SWOSU after transferring from OU. “I spent my freshman year at OU with a Graphic Design major but struggled with the transition from a medium sized high school to a giant college. I also wondered if graphic design was what I really wanted to do, so I was ready to just drop out,” she said.

Skinner found her footing within the SWOSU theatre department. She has starred in seven shows, worked tech on seven shows, and is now directing a show for her senior year. “If you told 19-year-old Sydnie that 22-year-old Sydnie would be directing her first show I would be so shocked, but probably as excited as I am now,” she said. “SWOSU Theatre, the theatre professors, and the past and present students have given me the opportunity to fall back in love with theatre, especially acting.” When asked about how her time at SWOSU has shaped her as a performer and director, she credited someone for being a very special asset during this time. “Dr. Patrick Julian has played a huge role in my growth as an actor and director… and I’ve definitely stolen from his directing style,” she said. “It’s important to understand the mind of an actor to work with an actor. So being one makes it all run so much smoother.”

Skinner’s senior directing project is Digging Up the Boys. This was a play that I had no knowledge of prior to SWOSU’s casting call. I asked her why she chose this play for such an important moment in her college career. “I have to give credit to Professor Salmans-Meditz for this one. She suggested the show, and from hearing the synopsis I agreed to it. After getting to read it, I was hooked and excited to put it on.”

As she prepares to graduate, Skinner reflects on what she’s taking with her as both a performer and director. “As a graduating senior I hope to carry the confidence I’ve built, the friendships I’ve made and the drive to work hard. As a Skinner, I strive to be the hardest worker I can be.” When asked for her advice to any students interested in SWOSU Theatre, her answer is simple: “DO IT!!!!! It’s a great way to build confidence, make good friends and be involved on campus. I’ve loved my time here at the SWOSU Theatre and would do it all over again in a heartbeat.”

Ending her time at SWOSU with this production, Skinner described this time as “bittersweet.” She added, “I’m super excited for the community to come see a show that I was in charge of. It’s crazy to think about how little ole me did it, but I did it! I’m proud to see how this show has grown from the ground up. I’m proud of my actors and the hard work and progress they’ve made since the first day. I’m proud of my tech team and the elements they’ve built to make this show come to life. It’s hard to know that it’ll all be over for me soon, but I hope to leave a good impact on my way out.”

I have had the amazing opportunity of working with Sydney as a cast member in this play. She is an absolute joy to work with and her passion for theatre comes through with every rehearsal I have attended. I couldn’t name a more deserving person at SWOSU to be directing this Fall’s play. It is going to be great!

Digging Up the Boys will be performed at SWOSU’s Hilltop Theatre with shows at 7 p.m. on Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday.