Pitching Black
Eraina Tyson
Eraina Tyson
Some drama has begun to spark the interest of several students this semester. In October, from the 11th through the 13th, the Hillgrove High School theatre department will be showcasing “Black Comedy”, a one act play that utilizes a reversed lighting scheme. Students of all different forms of experiences and interests auditioned to be a part of the showcase.
The plot of the production consists of a dinner party that experiences a blackout. The unique concept of beginning the play with the lights off, then turning them on with the actors pretending that they have blown out is sure to be a laugh for all who attend.
Students within the cast are required to attend rehearsals on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays. As rehearsals begin, sophomore Madelyn Laprade explained what this first-of-many experience in theatre was like for her. “I play the role of a German electrician in Black Comedy. I was in drama club all throughout elementary school and in my 6th grade year. Since I wanted to gain experience in Hillgrove’s department before auditioning for the Spring Musical, I decided to audition for the one act. I am not a German man, so German accent isn’t so fantastic. Although this is an obstacle, I have been writing the phonetic spelling of my lines in order to memorize and practice them that way in order to present the character properly. I am slowly gaining confidence and becoming less nervous as rehearsals continue. I think that the actors are talented and the script is pretty funny. It’s going to be a great show!”
Being familiar with the theatre atmosphere, junior Ryle Hardin has an optimistic, yet realistic point of view for those interested in joining the drama department. He is the main character in the production. “I love acting so why not go for it? About 45 people showed up to the audition, so you really had to go up and take what you wanted to get a part. I have never been in any one acts, but have had other parts in 3 past Hillgrove productions. The cast members have quickly become my friends. More support and people are needed in the drama department. I would most definitely recommend it because it’s one of the best and fun ways to express yourself.”
TJ Van-Dyke has only been at Hillgrove for about a month and compared his time and background to the environment at Pebblebrook. “The stakes at Pebblebrook we’re very high when it came to auditions and set up for productions. It is definitely a more laid back setting here at Hillgrove but everyone does their part; the work is nothing back-breakingly difficult. I was caught off guard by how kind everyone in the department was.” TJ also expressed how the over dramatization of theatre classes in films and television could turn students away, but the reality is much more enjoyable. “If you’re interested in drama, acting, or would just like to try something new, it’s definitely something worth getting into!”
There is definitely no shortage of dedication, professionalism or talent when it comes to these Hawks. For those who are interested in coming out to support the casted actors, the ticket prices are five dollars for students and eight dollars for adults. Attending this showcase might just brighten up your day.
The plot of the production consists of a dinner party that experiences a blackout. The unique concept of beginning the play with the lights off, then turning them on with the actors pretending that they have blown out is sure to be a laugh for all who attend.
Students within the cast are required to attend rehearsals on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays. As rehearsals begin, sophomore Madelyn Laprade explained what this first-of-many experience in theatre was like for her. “I play the role of a German electrician in Black Comedy. I was in drama club all throughout elementary school and in my 6th grade year. Since I wanted to gain experience in Hillgrove’s department before auditioning for the Spring Musical, I decided to audition for the one act. I am not a German man, so German accent isn’t so fantastic. Although this is an obstacle, I have been writing the phonetic spelling of my lines in order to memorize and practice them that way in order to present the character properly. I am slowly gaining confidence and becoming less nervous as rehearsals continue. I think that the actors are talented and the script is pretty funny. It’s going to be a great show!”
Being familiar with the theatre atmosphere, junior Ryle Hardin has an optimistic, yet realistic point of view for those interested in joining the drama department. He is the main character in the production. “I love acting so why not go for it? About 45 people showed up to the audition, so you really had to go up and take what you wanted to get a part. I have never been in any one acts, but have had other parts in 3 past Hillgrove productions. The cast members have quickly become my friends. More support and people are needed in the drama department. I would most definitely recommend it because it’s one of the best and fun ways to express yourself.”
TJ Van-Dyke has only been at Hillgrove for about a month and compared his time and background to the environment at Pebblebrook. “The stakes at Pebblebrook we’re very high when it came to auditions and set up for productions. It is definitely a more laid back setting here at Hillgrove but everyone does their part; the work is nothing back-breakingly difficult. I was caught off guard by how kind everyone in the department was.” TJ also expressed how the over dramatization of theatre classes in films and television could turn students away, but the reality is much more enjoyable. “If you’re interested in drama, acting, or would just like to try something new, it’s definitely something worth getting into!”
There is definitely no shortage of dedication, professionalism or talent when it comes to these Hawks. For those who are interested in coming out to support the casted actors, the ticket prices are five dollars for students and eight dollars for adults. Attending this showcase might just brighten up your day.