The University of Idaho Retirees Association Board will host UIRA Night Wednesday partnering with the UI Department of Theatre Arts to present William Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night” at the Hartung Theater.
Travis Gray, as Orsino, and Lee Young, as Valentine, rehearse for William Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night. “
Associate Director of Alumni Programs Hugh Cooke said this is a social event — an intimate private evening for UIRA members and guests. He said this event is also to support the Department of Theatre Arts.
UIRA President Carolyn Riggs said the main purpose of this night is to stay connected with the university and other retired colleagues.
“It’s a great night to connect with past coworkers and enjoy a theater produced by our local students,” she said. “We charge just a minimum of five dollars and all of that money goes directly to the theater.”
Cooke said UIRA Night has happened each year for the past five years, and approximately 50 guests are expected to come. It begins at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday starting with the social and followed by the “Twelfth Night” performance at 7:30 p.m.
“Twelfth Night” officially opens Thursday, so Riggs said performing at UIRA Night is the cast’s chance to do final rehearsal with live audiences.
“Twelfth Night” is directed by the Department of Theatre Arts Assistant Professor Chris DuVal and performed by UI theater students.
Riggs said that some people like Shakespeare and “Twelfth Night” will be a new thing to watch. Last year’s performance was “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum,” which was also a comedy.
Cooke said in addition to helping the theater department by donating the funds from Wednesday’s event, UIRA has been supportive of the university and Moscow community. They have presented more than $4,000 in academic scholarships for undergraduates.
“UIRA is serviced and staffed by the Office of Alumni Relations as an opportunity for retired employees to continue their engagement with the University of Idaho,” he said.
Cooke said UIRA, in the last thirteen years, has also financially supported the Alternative Service Breaks, a community service opportunity for UI students to volunteer and improve leadership skills.
UI students will present Alternative Spring Break Projects during the UIRA Spring Luncheon 12 p.m. Thursday at the Best Western Plus University Inn.
Nurainy Darono can be reached at [email protected]