Aug. 19-21: Students share life experiences on stage

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By Steve Nakata, Administrative Services

PULLMAN, Wash. – Sixteen high school students from throughout central Washington will act out some of their most significant life experiences during Las Memorias 2015 at Washington State University.

The unique college preparation program coordinated by WSU student affairs will stage free, public performances at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Friday, Aug. 19-21, in Jones Theatre in Daggy Hall.

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Students perform in Las Memorias 2014, above, and 2012, top.

Las Memorias was created in 2008 by John Fraire, former WSU vice president of student affairs, as a fresh approach to helping students with writing, public speaking, working in teams and setting priorities.

Preparation for the show began months ago when WSU admissions counselor JR Gomez spoke with high school students in the towns of Warden, Mabton and Pateros, Wash. Interested students submitted writing samples describing their backgrounds and aspirations.

Selected students were brought to WSU in July to work with theater professors Mary Trotter and Benjamin Gonzales. The students returned to campus this week to participate in full rehearsals for up to eight hours a day.

“They have become a tight family with a lot of camaraderie and openness between them,” said Marcela Pattinson, assistant director of WSU Multicultural Student Services. “I think you will see that reflected in their performances.”

Program chaperone Cesar Guerrero has been to three Las Memorias performances in previous years and said they always include something for everyone.

“It doesn’t matter what generation you’re from, you will relate with many of the topics,” he said. “It makes you realize you aren’t the only one dealing with certain issues.”

 

Contacts:
Marcela Pattinson, WSU Multicultural Student Services, 509-335-7326, marcela.pattinson@wsu.edu
Steve Nakata, Administrative Services communications, 509-335-1774, nakata@wsu.edu