Putting on a show is no easy feat, but the EHS theater department doesn’t shy away from a challenge. They are putting on three shows this school year, including the upcoming One Act Plays: Bad Auditions by Bad Actors and Drop Dead Juliet!
Brit Flynn is the EHS Theater Program Director, and she is the person in charge of getting these shows from rehearsals to the stage. Her job also includes the tricky task of picking what shows get to be performed.
“I am always trying to keep in mind who we have in our program currently, what their strengths are, where they need to grow, and what show would serve them best,” Flynn said. “The musical is ultimately decided by myself and the music director, Alexis Koch, but also with the ideas and interests of our students and other adult designers…We read through, watch, listen to, go to see tons of shows to find the right fit that will support EHS values and also our own theater community.”
This year, her decisions led to the upcoming performance of the two comedies: Bad Auditions by Bad Actors and Drop Dead Juliet! So, how are these shows coming together?
Junior Emma Paradee is the actor for Roger and Romeo. She has had a passion for theater for many years now.
“My older sister started theater in middle school,” Paradee said. “She inspired me to join. After that, I just kept going.”
However, passion also includes the workload that comes with participating in EHS’s shows.
“In between breaks during rehearsal I try to find time to do homework,” Paradee said. “I spend a lot of my free time going over my lines either by myself, with friends, or with family. I treat memorizing the show like a homework assignment.”
While busy work is necessary, most believe it’s worth it in exchange for their theater experience.
Freshman Addison Howatt plays Alison Quint and a Capulet. She expressed nothing but positivity for the show.
“I love how funny these shows are,” Howatt said. “The performances are an amazing comedy that highlights different characters’ personalities. And, it’s just so fun to rehearse.”
Junior Maggie Pomykala plays Carol Danes and Tybalt, and she’s been enjoying the process, too.
“This show is shorter and it’s not a musical,” Pomykala said. “However, it’s still one to look forward to.”
Enthusiasm on all fronts is creating positive momentum before the shows.
“The most enjoyable part of this production was probably the fun rehearsals,” Howatt said. “Sure, it’s a lot of work and hours, but it’s very fun to watch the plays come together.”
For Paradee, the relationships and time spent with her castmates is the best part.
“Whether it be the cast or crew, I always enjoy bonding during rehearsals and after school,” Paradee said.
Flynn is most excited for audiences to see the hard work of the students.
“Everyone puts so much of themselves into each show,” Flynn said. “The two comedies are delightful. I embrace all to take the opportunity to support these students and let them entertain you.”
Bad Auditions by Bad Actors and Drop Dead Juliet! are performing on March 12 to March 14 in the EHS auditorium. Tickets can be bought online or at the door—$5 for students and $10 for others.
