Drama Kings and Queens
The work of theater performers extends beyond the lighted stage.
Holding hands senior Michael Van Camp and junior Amanda Blumenschein look into each others’ eyes while preforming on stage.
Curtains drop, lights go off. Another play has come to a wrap. But the job isn’t quite over yet, while some students are still at work in the classroom, production for the next play starts right away.
For the most recent drama production, “Princess and the Pea,” approximately 40 students auditioned. Everyone who auditioned earned a part whether it was a lead role, tech or extra.
“A lot of work goes into the rehearsal and set building process,” drama teacher Lori Thompson said. “Rehearsals are every day until 6 p.m. and set building begins at 7 p.m. and finishes at 9 p.m. We accomplish all of this in a matter of four weeks time.”
Extras fill scenes that need supporting roles. For this play they had three extra princesses that were understudies and extras. There were around 10 extras and the rest of the people who did not earn a speaking part became tech. Techs work backstage and help move props between scenes and some also work with the lights and sound.
“I got a part as an extra,” sophomore Madyson Curvin said. “I am grateful I got a part because it makes me want to work harder for next time and now I know what to do to score a lead role.”
To audition for any plays throughout the year, a paper can be found on the door of the theater room. Thompson will assign parts at the audition.
“I kind of had fun with the audition process, we did a read through with the entire group to get a feel of the play and Mrs. Thompson assigned roles to people and then she assigned scenes to those people,” senior Michael Vancamp said. “We took 20-30 minutes to practice it and then she would have the groups perform it in front of her.”
Outside of auditions and productions there is only one advanced drama class and the students are encouraged to work to their full potential to join IB Theater. IB Theater is the next level up and is available to juniors and seniors through an audition their sophomore year.
The next production, “Twelfth Night,” written by Shakespeare, will premier in January. It is only open for audition to IB students, however anyone can come see the show.
