University of Northern Colorado Sophomore Directs First Play, Pushing Boundaries of Campus Theater
Sophia Raymond
A second-year at the University of Northern Colorado is making her directorial debut in a production that defies traditional theater norms by turning unexpected locations into performance spaces. Belle Shand, a second-year theater education major, is directing “Burglars, Bunglers, and Neighborhood Thieves,” a student-run production that will be staged on April 17 and 18 as part of Shenanigans, a UNC-based theater group. Unlike conventional theater productions, Shenanigans focuses on immersive and site-specific performances, transforming everyday spaces into theatrical venues.
"We focus a lot on found-space theater and site-specific theater,” Shand said.
This approach means the stage can be anywhere—from stairways to bookstores, even outdoor spaces. Rather than building a traditional set, Shenanigans embraces the location itself, choosing unique sites and turning them into theaters. This approach enhances the connection between actors and the audience, making for a more interactive, personal, and immersive experience.
"A lot of what we do is site resourcing,” Shand explained. "We find sites and resource them as theaters. We make it experiential for our audience no matter what, so it elevates whatever shows we do. Something we really like is getting off campus and exploring different things."
For Shand, this moment has been a long time in the making. She has been involved with Shenanigans since the spring of 2024 and has been preparing for this moment since her freshman year, studying how productions work and understanding where she fits into the process.
"This is my first time directing at UNC,” Shand shared. “Freshman year, I knew I wanted to direct here. I wanted to see what kinds of shows people were doing, how I could contribute, and how to find a safe way to figure out how to direct here.”
For Shand, “Burglars, Bunglers, and Neighborhood Thieves” it is not just about directing, it has been about proving that art doesn’t have to exist within the confines of four walls. To her, theater should be accessible, innovative, and take place everywhere.
“Art comes in many forms and can be in many places,” she said.
Shand’s production promises to be a unique experience, challenging the boundaries of theater and creating an unforgettable, interactive experience for both the audience and performers.
