Woodmen Theater started its season with its adaptation of a show based on the board game Clue.
The summer production had students practicing through June and July. This is the second student-led production, meaning a production with minimal guidance from teachers. It was directed by junior Lorelai Dokkens and junior Lilyana Luhigo.
“I ended up joining the summer production because I needed something to fill my summer with. I had summer school, but I needed something more than just school,” sophomore Charlie Leis, who played the role of Mr. Green, said.
Mrs. Amy Hayes, theater teacher, allowed students to problem-solve during the production. She noticed how many students have adjusted to a different schedule and experience.
“It can be stressful with students in charge and students trusting other students. I’ve noticed a lot of fun and a lot of growth and a willingness to try something new and put faith in their colleagues,” Mrs. Hayes said.
Though it was during the summer, balancing theater with other activities could have been difficult. As was the case for junior Adam Soboleski, who voiced the struggles of learning his lines for the role of Colonel Mustard.
“I had trouble learning my lines because my parents helped to teach me, but they were away in Europe for two weeks. I had to focus when learning lines when it was just me,” Soboleski said.
Making a show was a high-effort, high-reward experience. Everyone worked together to learn each other’s lines and to manage issues that arose.
“It is a small cast production, and that lets everyone be more connected with each other, which makes acting more comfortable for us,” Sobeleski said.
Even with these obstacles, the students balanced the chaos and comedy that Clue had to offer. Working together allowed these students to prepare something truly great for the stage.
“My favorite part is when Wadsworth goes through the entire night recapping everything that happens, like in the movie,” junior Trevor Capien, who played the role of Professor Plum, said.
Theater also involves tech. But most importantly, it allows students to develop themselves as a theater crew.
“I felt like I did not deserve the role as I did not feel super prepared. I feel happy that I’ve been able to grow into the role and as an actor as I only played small parts and ensemble parts before,” Leis said.
The directors of Clue offered a word of advice for those considering joining theater as an extracurricular.
“Do it. Don’t be afraid. We are all very welcoming, and we all want more people to be involved in theater; we need the extra help. Be confident and be involved,” Dokkens said.
