In the early aughts of the 21st century, The world had changed forever -- and Recess again underwent signifigant changes in the structure of shows. For the first time, short videos became standard at every Betts performance, and the group amassed a library large enough to herald an annual 'All-Video Show' composed of highlights. The unusually high percentage of Radio-TV majors during these years helped the group markedly improve production values.

As the University continued to grow, it became increasingly harder to schedule show dates in the Betts Theater once a month. The group began to split their time between the Betts Theater and the Continental Ballroom, both in the Marvin Center. While the Ballroom allowed for a show once a month, the technical inadequacies were a hindrance. The Downstage was relinquished from the Theater Department around the same time, but control of the space was left in the hands of a few 'theater groups.' As Recess has always maintained it is an intramural sport, they were not invited to be a part of the action. Where the group once battled the administration for the right to perform, they now found themselves up against a group of empowered students. In this drama-filled quest for space, Recess once again assumed the role of John Proctor in the establishment's seemingly bi-annual presentation of The Crucible . Also of note, the fabled Recess House was sold to GW after 8+ years of wild partying in the summer of 2003. Today it is a dry, on-campus frat house -- a shadow of its former self.

Recess performed notably at the University of Southern California's Improv Festival, as well as at festivals in DC -- renewing friendships at places such as Georgetown and Catholic University. In this era of heighted tensions, the group continued to produce weapons grade jokes at a fevered pitch.

Click here too read part V of the Recess History