Existere
Existere XVIII
Existere is a social action theatre group, dedicated to preparing frosh for their first year at Queen’s by using theatre to present issues and messages about coping at University. The show, which has been running for 15 years, is a favourite part of Orientation for many students and includes topics such as living in residence, academics, health, violence, sex, alcohol, inclusion and diversity. All of the scenes presented in the show are written by the cast members based on their own experiences at university.
Our cast is assembled in January, and is comprised entirely of first year students (second years by the time the show goes live in September). They are by no means all actors or writers or performers – in fact, for many cast members it’s their first time in this kind of show/performance. Cast members rehearse during the winter term by discussing relevant issues and messages, and working together and individually to brainstorm, create, and write concepts or scenes for the September performance. The cast returns to Kingston near the end of August where they work for about a week putting together the final show for Orientation week.
Don Bookings
High Table bookings: For dons interested in booking Existere for high table dinners, we suggest you contact the Coordinator, Educational Programs and Special Projects by email at karla.gouthro@queensu.ca. Please email Karla well in advance of your high table date with a small description of what you are looking for (scenes, small group of speakers, directors only, etc.) along with a rough estimate of how many guests/speakers you are able to have in attendance.
Videos
Monologues
Existere was originally a show comprised predominantly of monologues – it has evolved over the years to its current scene form. As an exercise during the winter term rehearsals, cast members wrote monologues to be used in preview shows, as inspiration for scenes, or simply to practice writing in a dramatic form – click here for some examples of this work (note: none of these monologues are actual scenes from shows).
Be Part of Existere
Do you want to be a part of Existere? All first year Queen’s students are invited to apply for Existere, and best of all, there’s no acting or writing experience necessary! We’re looking for dynamic and interesting people who represent a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences and are interested in writing scenes with the entire cast.
To apply, pick up an application form from any residence front desk on campus in early January. Those who have been selected for an interview will be contacted by the current directors or a member of the Residence Life staff. It is an extremely fun and creative process so feel free to express yourself through any desired means and show us what you have to offer!
Cast Biographies
Contact Us
For general questions or concerns please contact the Residence Life Office in Vic Hall.
tel: 613.533.6790; E-mail: reslife@queensu.ca
To contact the most recent Existere directing team (Existere XVIII), please email the Coordinator of Educational Programs and Special Projects at karla.gouthro@queensu.ca