West Perry High School Fall Play
On November 13th and 14th, a cast of 30 students and the play “Lizzie Borden of Fall River” appeared on West Perry High School’s stage. “Lizzie Borden of Fall River” is a play based on the ax murders of 1892, a case where Lizzie Borden was accused of murdering her father and step-mother.
In April, Mr. Grippin, Mrs.Ewing, and Mr. Guyer sat down to discuss what production they would be putting on this fall. They chose “Lizzie Borden of Fall River” because of the dramatic and Halloween-themed plot and real-story background. Mr. Grippin believes that a good play has deep characters, developed plot, and can interest the audience, something “Lizzie Borden of Fall River” provides. This play also gives the opportunity to dig deep into their characters and focus on the character’s feelings and relationships. In October, auditions started and were slightly different this year because of the selective cast of 15 parts. A week later, rehearsals began, many students agreeing that the process of learning their lines and working on the play after school is relaxed and fun. The actors just learn their lines and practice scenes onstage as the directors encourage them to be loud and practice lines in their free time. Mr. Grippin says that the most important thing the student actors can do is to show up to rehearsals, know the lines, and figure out the depth of their character and relationships. Many of the students also agreed that the actors need to seem natural and comfortable on stage. The actors and directors aren’t the only ones at work though; fiftee students this year are working backstage. They do their part by helping with costumes, props, lighting, sound, and switching the sets for the next scene. High schoolers join the drama department for many reasons. Many of the backstage workers wanted to see how the play comes together and gain the experience. Mr. Grippin thinks that drama is important to the school because it gives kids a chance to perform and express their creativity. It builds confidence (not only for the students acting but for the backstage kids, too) and gives high schoolers who aren’t into any other school activities something to contribute to. Not only did the students participating get a chance to express themselves, but they also acquired a great group of friends, too. To see the finished product of West Perry’s “Lizzie Borden of Fall River”, tickets will be available on the West Perry site for $6.00. |
By: Nora Robb