STERLING — A new creative initiative is taking shape at Sterling College with the launch of GhostLight, a devised theatre ensemble directed and led by theatre faculty member Lesa Brown. The project expands the scope of Sterling College Theatre by introducing students to collaborative, original theatre-making centered on both artistic exploration and community engagement.

The name GhostLight carries both theatrical tradition and symbolic meaning. In theatre practice, a “ghost light” is a single bulb left glowing on a darkened stage—part safety measure, part symbol of the theatre’s continued life. At Sterling, that image becomes a guiding metaphor: bringing light into quiet or uncertain spaces. The ensemble reflects that purpose by creating work that fosters connection, dialogue, and meaning both on campus and in the broader community.

GhostLight is rooted in devised theatre, a process in which an ensemble collectively creates original performance rather than working from a pre-written script. “Devised theatre is a collaborative process wherein a group creates an original piece of theatre, though processes vary widely,” Brown explains. The approach supports both storytelling and applied theatre work that engages audiences in active dialogue and problem-solving.

The name originated in 2018 as a one-time ensemble project for a Colorado Springs community theatre. Since then, it has become the ongoing identity for Brown’s evolving approach to ensemble-based, student-driven work.

At Sterling, devised theatre serves as a complement to traditional productions. “Our students needed to see other sides of theatre beyond large-scale mainstage work,” Brown said. “So much exciting theatre today uses devised and applied techniques, including Forum Theatre, which invites audiences into the problem-solving process.”

GhostLight also emphasizes outreach. The ensemble brings theatre into schools and community spaces through performance, workshops, and guided discussion. Its current focus on friendship and loneliness were used in presentations at the C.S. Lewis Conference and outreach visits to a church in Lyons and Hutchinson High School. In addition, the ensemble will take its work internationally, with a planned appearance in Oxford as part of the Sterling College Theatre London Trip later in May, extending its mission of connection and storytelling to a global audience.

“Theatre is a powerful tool for teaching, challenging, and inspiring people toward meaningful action,” Brown said. “It can be used intentionally to address important issues and share meaningful messages. This is also a way for Sterling to go into the community, build relationships, and share the light of Christ.”

Despite the challenge of balancing rehearsal with a full production season, the inaugural ensemble has shown strong commitment. Looking ahead, Brown hopes to expand the program through student leadership, touring opportunities, and the development of full-length devised work.

“I’m most excited that my students get to experience this kind of theatre,” she said, “and the joy of doing ministry through your art form.”