Professor Anthony Stockard came to Norfolk State University almost 10 years ago to develop the school’s drama and theater company.
As he walked around and introduced himself to students, Stockard learned many of them didn’t even know the school had a theater on campus.
Recently, he started thumbing through the school’s archives and realized NSU once had a thriving, well-known reputation in local theater. The school opened in 1935 during the Great Depression, and its theater program started a year later, becoming the school’s first student activity.
The documentary, “Something to Behold,” premieres Tuesday and features photos and interviews about the history of the theater program. The night will include receptions before and after the screening and a panel discussion.
Stockard said the documentary idea first started as a way to mark the 10th anniversary of the current theater department and its growth. Recent milestones include: The opening of a $60 million theater complex in 2017; winning national honors at theater festivals and competitions; its formation of collaborations with arts groups including the Virginia Stage Company and Virginia Arts Festival, which have allowed his students more extensive training and work under equity contracts; and the launch of a bachelor degree in drama and theater.
He said the school’s founders knew in 1935 what administrators know now: Theater has value beyond a stage performance.
History students can work as dramaturgs and apply their expertise to make sure plays and productions are historically accurate. Electrical engineers can find jobs behind the technological scenes; medical and biology students can teach and learn in the makeup department. Finance students can help in the administration.
“I have yet to see a major where you couldn’t get real, intern-level experience without leaving campus,” Stockard said
The department begins its anniversary season Friday with the return of “Thoughts of a Colored Man,” the highest-grossing show in the school’s history.
“It’s an amazing time in the university’s history,” Stockard said. “I’m glad to be here.”
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If you go
When: 6:30 p.m. reception; 7:30 documentary screening
Where: NSU Brown Memorial Hall Mainstage Theater, Corprew Avenue of NSU campus, Norfolk
Cost: $35
