The BurkTech Players is a longstanding collaboration between the School of Theatre and Dance and the Burkhart Center for Autism Education and Research. What began as a project for the Arts in the Community class is now a robust student-led organization that has hosted everything from original musicals to dance performances over its storied 10-year history. Recently, I sat down with the BurkTech executive officers to learn more about their upcoming performances and the evolution of the group.
The organization’s executive committee is comprised of theatre and dance graduate students and long-time BurkTech members, Spencer Ragland and Sam Shreffler. These two veteran players emphasized the impact of the welcoming spirit of the group on their own artistic journeys. This year also marks Shreffler’s first time serving as the co-artistic director. Alongside second-year Performance and Pedagogy student Robyn Connor, Shreffler has helped to ensure that the program remains a great experience for all participants.
A standout initiative this semester has been the introduction of workshops led by
School of Theatre and Dance faculty and students. These sessions fostered a sense
of belonging and collaboration among participants and helped set the tone for auditions
and rehearsals for the group’s upcoming production—The BurkTech Late Show—a production that promises to be an exciting evening of art of all varieties.
Shreffler said the group opted to do a variety show instead of a more traditional performance, calling the evening a “return to the roots of theatrical performance” that celebrates a wide range of talents beyond traditional theatre: “We want to challenge the definition of theater and show that anything performed on stage counts.”
This inclusive approach directly reflects the mission of the group, creating a safe
space for performers on the spectrum while also offering theatre and dance students
the opportunity to work with neurodiverse performers.
The excitement is palpable as the BurkTech Players prepare for their free public performances on November 15th and 16th in the Studio Performance Lab in the School of Theatre and Dance Complex at 2812 18th St. The team encourages everyone to join them for an evening of diverse talent and community celebration.
As the group continues to evolve, their commitment to inclusivity and collaboration still shines. BurkTech is not just about putting on a show; it’s about building a community where every member feels valued and inspired. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or new to the scene, there’s something for everyone in this year’s lineup. Don’t miss the chance to witness the magic!