Regional Drama competition this Saturday, 10 a.m.
by Maralyn Fink
I decided to return to the High School this week, where I came across the Drama students rehearsing for their up-coming Regional competition. St. Johns will host the competition on Saturday February 11, 2012.
This group is directed by Ashley Bowen, and the student director is Alexia Ruestman. I watched and listened “behind the scenes” to learn what I could about this group.
First up were the stage crew moving the backdrops that they would need onto the stage. These were all built by the students.
Boy, that takes some muscle. Beside the sets and backdrops, there are many more roles to play: Actors, stage manager, costumes, make-up to name a few. These are all things that make the “show go on.”
The costumes are all hand-made, and the common things are sometimes purchased at a thrift store. Actors/Actresses all need to get measured; then the sewing begins. Make-up crew is just as important for the final touch.
The group has one fall production and one competition during the fall/winter months. For fall, starting 3 months ahead of time, are the tryouts for the roles; and they are done with equal Freshman, Sophomore, Junior and Seniors. Everyone is hoping for a position to make their stage debut. This Saturday, they will compete in the Regional competition, doing “Parade”.
They competed a week ago in Districts where a 1st or 2nd place is a must to qualify for Regionals. This will consist of 5-6 schools competing.
The group has rehearsed everyday, some afternoons and some evenings. My feeling is that they will come away Saturday in the top of the field.
Here’s a wrap-up. In talking with the stage manager she said “This is a close knit group of students that have some bad days, but the good days make up for it”.
Stop in at the school on Saturday. This group will perform at 10 am in the Pocuis Auditorium, free admission. Let’s support this great group of students who work very hard to entertain everyone and thank them for all their hard work.
Also, if you see a car wash in spring or fall, stop by and support them. You won’t be sorry. Donations can also be sent to the High School in care of the Drama Club.
Congratulations to all of The Drama Club!
Thank you for letting me spend some time with you.