Aaron Bonds is in no way a thief, but he will play one in the USI comedy Loot, on the USI Theatre stage this month. He’ll be Dennis in Joe Orton’s dark farce full of unforgettable characters.
A senior from Indianapolis, Bonds is a veteran in the theatre ranks at USI. He has acted in many productions, been stage manager, and currently is president of Playmakers, a student organization that raises money so students can attend conferences and theatre productions in cities like St. Louis, Chicago, and Indianapolis.
Conferences are important for theatre students seeking acting jobs. Bonds passed the screening and auditioned at the Southeastern Theatre Conference, Inc. and earned summer work with Seaside Repertory Theatre in Seaside, Florida for two summers performing improvisation theatre and comedy. He is a member of SDF7 Improv, the troupe that set the record of 35 hours for the longest running improvisation performance.
He knows USI theatre faculty help students succeed. “The acting teachers are willing to help you get better, if you are willing to put in the time,” Bonds said. He thinks being a theatre major has helped him open up as a person, and it has introduced him to a diverse world.
One of his career goals is to become a playwright. This spring two of his plays will be produced as staged readings by theatre students.
Performing music is another career goal. Aaron and his brother Jonathan won the Student Talent Show at USI in the fall, and this spring they have recorded an album NorStar presents L.O.D. Chapter 1 The Beginning, a rap album now available for purchase for $10.
After graduation Bonds plans to move to New York and pursue interests in music and theatre.
Aaron is the son of Gregory and Phyllis Bonds. He is a graduate of Broad Ripple High School in Indianapolis. His love of theatre began in 8th grade when he performed in Grease.
The USI Theatre production of Loot will run February 18 to 21 and February 25 to 29. Tickets are $3 for USI students; $9, general admission, and $7 for seniors (60+). Phone 465-1668 for information and curtain times.
