October 2, 2026
Story and photos by Joe Vinduska
With a focused casting of only five people and on-stage black box style seating, Barton’s new Director of Theatrical Activities Jack Greenwood knew that he could offer audiences a fresh theatre experience they would be able to relate to and be immersed in when he chose Annie Baker’s “Circle Mirror Transformation” as the fall play.
“I wanted to do something different, something more intimate,” he said. “I read this script in January and was immediately taken with the characters and their complexities. I knew it would be a challenge for our actors, but a necessary challenge that is worth exploring.”
The show is set in New England and follows members of a six-week-long community-center drama class, which creates situations where hearts are quietly torn apart, and tiny wars of epic proportions are waged and won.
Theatre major Anna Bitter of Great Bend said the production evokes different emotions.
“People should come see this production not only for the laughs, but for the raw example of how people’s lives can change,” she said. “It reminds us that everyone has their own story and how we can help each other.”
Greenwood said he has enjoyed watching the cast learn how to navigate the script.
“What is unique is how human this play is. It feels like an indie movie, it lives and breathes authentic interactions,” he said. “I think audiences will want to explore the dynamics between each character, and all the unorthodox activities the characters do. The play has a lot of perspectives on love, loss, and free will, and I think audiences will find those perspectives interesting."
Barton Theatre Major Fahren Livingston, who was born in Seattle and grew up in South Africa, said it’s been both a little fun and a little scary rehearsing for such a unique production.
“Being able to work with people from Barton has been so exciting, and I can’t wait to see how this all turns out,” she said. “Both the director and cast have been so sweet and supportive, and I have loved every minute I’ve gotten to rehearse with them. People should come to see the production to have a great laugh and to really get in their feels. It has a little something for everyone.”
Madaline Kolas of Hoisington is not a theatre major yet, but said she might end up pursuing that path because she’s had such a rewarding time being a cast member.
“Working with the director and the other actors has honestly been the best part of my life,” she said. “I think that people should come watch this show because it's funny and it's really interesting to watch.”
Theatre Major James Kingsbury of Dorrance echoed his castmates' sentiments about the positive environment cultivated throughout the rehearsal process.
“It is a really inclusive group that has made me find my confidence in acting,” he said. “The director has been very kind and helpful through the process of finding my character, and the cast has been very supportive, and we all show how much we care about this performance.
Student Jacob Warner of England said preparing for the role has been very fun and exciting.
“Getting to work with our Director Jack Greenwood and the cast has been an amazing experience,” he said. “We have worked very hard to put on a great show, so come see us.”
Greenwood said the actors have made his first production in his new role memorable.
They’ve been absolutely phenomenal,” he said. “We have returning students and some brand new. Everyone has been excited about doing the work, and they’ve all worked so hard. What really has impressed me is how this cast has come together as a team. They are supporting and encouraging each other; they understand they are an ensemble.”
General admission tickets are available for $10 at the door or online at shows.bartonccc.edu. The production is rated PG-13.