While only a handful of students at Colgate University opt for theater as their academic concentration, whether as a major or minor, Masque and Triangle (M&T) — the University’s student theater group — provides an opportunity for theater enthusiasts to engage in theatrical activities and performances outside of the classroom.
This spring, Masque and Triangle will be performing the musical “Be More Chill.” Past spring musicals include “Something Rotten” in Spring 2023 and “The Addams Family” in Spring 2022.
“The club typically puts on one full-length musical every spring, while there is usually a cabaret or musical concert in the fall,” sophomore member Madison Elias said. “Throughout the year, there are also smaller projects here and there. We also have a Dancefest group that performs twice a year.”
Masque and Triangle focuses largely on musical theater, specifically, and provides its members with a variety of performance opportunities. At the Fall 2023 Dancefest, members of the club participated in dance routines that were in the theme of the musicals “Mamma Mia” and “The Prom.” The dances are always a musical theater style of dance and are set to a song from a musical.
Elias joined the group as a first-year and has been involved in the club ever since. She explained that the club has a large number of members, but members have the autonomy to determine their level of engagement. The time commitment is contingent on each individual member’s participation in specific projects.
“Not everyone participates in every project, which is one of the most awesome things about M&T, since you have the freedom to dedicate as much or as little time as you can,” Elias said. “If you’re in the spring musical, for example, that probably requires the most time commitment of all the projects, just due to all the moving parts.”
M&T President and junior Katie Victor further emphasized the varying commitment levels of different club members.
“I probably spend an average of 15-20 hours per week on club rehearsals, meetings and administrative work, but commitment can range from that to a couple of rehearsals or meetings per semester, or even just attending the shows,” Victor said.
Masque and Triangle empowers its members to initiate projects, providing everyone with creative freedom and a space for their ideas to flourish.
“M&T does a really great job of allowing people to spearhead projects by providing support, funding or other resources,” Elias said. “People are able to take turns directing or organizing productions.”
Elias emphasized the strong bond that the club cultivates between its members. The club provides its members with a sense of community and support within the broader Colgate community.
“I love the community and friendships I’ve built through the club,” Elias said. “I’ve met the most amazing people through being able to participate in different projects. Everyone is incredibly supportive and passionate about what they do.”
Sophomore Cece Dillon, who joined the club this past fall, participated in the production of the “The Lightning Thief” and attended the murder mystery dinner party that the club hosts. She described the satisfaction she has gotten out of her involvement in the club.
“I think the most valuable thing I’ve gotten out of M&T is the people,” Dillon said. “Obviously, there’s the satisfaction of creating something together, but what makes it so special is the people. Yes, there are ups and downs, but so many of the people I love here at Colgate do M&T, and it brings so many people together.”
Junior Danny Ruiz has taken on more of a directorial role in the club compared to some other members who primarily act and perform. He is currently the music coordinator of the club, as well as the vocal and music director for the musicals the club puts on. Ruiz explained that he has been involved in a variety of M&T projects, both on stage and behind the scenes, including “The Addams Family,” “Something Rotten,” a musical cabaret, Dancefest performances and directing “The Lightning Thief.” He has also worked in music directing and played the piano for “Be More Chill.”
Ultimately, Masque and Triangle provides Colgate thespians with an outlet to express their passions for theater, while meeting new people and forming relationships with students who have similar interests.
Masque and Triangle’s performance of “Be More Chill” will take place at the Brehmer Theater on Feb. 23, 24, 29 and March 1 at 7 p.m., as well as on Feb. 25 at 5 p.m.
