My name is Rachel Sper! I am a third-year Theatre student at VCU. I've spent my last three years at VCU involved in multiple Mainstages, short films, and other creative projects, but my journey started at Shafer Alliance Laboratory Theater. My freshman year, I was cast in a production of Rabbit Hole through S.A.L.T. that changed the way I thought about theatre and further solidified my passion for acting. Since then, I have hoped to get the opportunity to direct my very own production with S.A.L.T., and I'm beyond thrilled to get to say that I was chosen to direct this spring semester!

This is my first directing endeavor, and it comes with a lot of new challenges and experiences for me to navigate. I am thrilled to be trusted with the leadership and artistry needed to direct, and I am so excited to learn from this process and the people I work with.

Why Punk Rock?

I've chosen to direct the play Punk Rock by Simon Stephens. Punk Rock follows a group of English high schoolers in their final exams as they navigate the rocky terrain of adolescence, connection, and the fragile future as it begins to crack under the pressure of teenage life. Im very interested in playing into themes of knowledge, and the value of what/who is considered knowledgeable, as well as privilege, gender, and the weight of false safety. The story addresses numerous timely and frightening topics that inspired me to take on a challenging project in a time when theatre and the arts as a whole are being threatened.

I feel that VCU audiences need to see work that breeds discomfort and exposes experiences that we try to look away from. This work is challenging and unlike what I have been exposed to in most American plays, which is why im thrilled to bring it to Richmond's eyes. I intend to approach this process with respect, thoughtfulness, and intensity that will leave audiences thinking long after they have left the theatre.

Why I need your help

S.A.L.T. is a completely student-run and funded theatre organization; all funds for producing the show come from student directors' own pockets and include almost no academic support. Which is why I ask if you're able to help bring this beautiful show to life by donating to our production. Your donations would go directly into our show; funds would be used for purchasing the rights to perform the show as well as rehearsal materials, costuming, and set. I'd love to be able to give this show the attention and love that it deserves, but I can't do it alone. I would be incredibly thankful as an artist, student, and learning director to have your support to give this show, its cast/crew, and all who get to see it the attention it deserves.

Thank you for taking the time to read about my show. I hope I can count on your support to bring it to life! Thank you!