![\"SIU](\"http:\/\/blog.siuf.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/McLeod-Summer-Playhouse-Joseph-and-the-Technicolor-Dreamcoat-2-1024x681.jpg\")
<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
As a venue for multiple shows each summer, the McLeod Summer Playhouse brings thousands of visitors to SIU. This longstanding pillar of SIU recently wrapped up its 2017 season, bringing to a close another successful performance for a program that helps fulfill the university\u2019s goal of providing the best for SIU students and the community at large.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a window into what we do at the university,\u201d said J. Thomas Kidd, associate professor of theater\/directing and chair of the Department of Theater at SIU.<\/p>\n
According to Kidd, the McLeod Summer Playhouse is the only professional theater in Southern Illinois.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt helps bring artistic life and increases the quality of life in the community,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Students also benefit greatly from the presence of a high-end theater production, and those enrolled in particular courses are offered credit for working with the playhouse. They often earn internships, which can lead to jobs within the production.<\/p>\n
Being part of the playhouse offers important experience for graduates who plan to work in theater, film, advertising and more.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is a gateway degree into the entertainment industry,\u201d Kidd said. \u201cFor many, (the McLeod Summer Playhouse) is their first professional experience.\u201d<\/p>\n
While the program does have an annual budget allotment, the funds don\u2019t fully cover the costs of updating and maintaining the theater.<\/p>\n
Kidd said the theater is in need of major upgrades, including new seats and a new sound system. Much of the backstage infrastructure has been brought up to date, but it\u2019s the front of the house that requires improvement now.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s in need of upgrades to bring it up to standards,\u201d he said. \u201cIt needs to reflect where we are going.\u201d<\/p>\n
To support an endowment that fund and sustain the performing arts for students and the region, including the McLeod Summer Playhouse, visit\u00a0http:\/\/foreversiu.org\/colleges-units\/liberal-arts.php<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" As a venue for multiple shows each summer, the McLeod Summer Playhouse brings thousands of visitors to SIU. This longstanding pillar of SIU recently wrapped up its 2017 season, bringing to a close another successful performance for a program that helps fulfill the university\u2019s goal of providing the best for SIU students and the community … Continue reading Theater injects life, art into community<\/span>