Three one-act plays will take the stage at South Carroll High School in Sykesville this week, bringing audiences into a range of imaginative settings. The performances, which include a haunted carousel, a questionable fast-food joint, and a lively party from the 1980s, will open on Thursday, March 15, 2024, at 19:00, with additional shows scheduled for Friday at 19:00 and Saturday at 14:00 and 19:00.
The cast and crew of these productions comprise a total of 71 students, all of whom are involved in various aspects of directing and producing the shows. The first play, “That’s Not How I Remember It,” written by Dan Zolidis, features a married couple who recount their meeting from contrasting perspectives. This production is directed by A.J. Dunn and Brooke Jefferies.
Another production, “The Haunted Carousel,” directed by Marissa Struckhoff and Kendall Rawson, delves into the emotional journey of a woman searching for her lost child across different time periods. Struckhoff, a senior, expressed her desire to address serious themes, such as kidnapping, in this poignant performance, which was written by Ruth Angell Purkey.
The third play, “Employees Must Wash Hands Before Murder,” is a comedy-drama also penned by Zolidis. In this production, directed by Ryan D’Amato, Hannah St. Michel, and Liv Morton, a health inspector uncovers dubious practices at a fast-food restaurant. St. Michel, who works at a local restaurant, said that insights from her experiences helped shape the show’s set design.
For junior Davney Sell, who plays multiple roles, including Harriet in “The Haunted Carousel” and Ashley in “Employees Must Wash Hands,” the collaboration with fellow students has been a rewarding aspect of the project. She stated, “Getting out of my comfort zone” has been a highlight of her experience.
Morton, taking on her first directing role, appreciates the opportunity to explore different creative viewpoints alongside her co-directors. “Working with three directors, we’ve all had a lot of different viewpoints on how our show should be,” she noted, emphasizing the benefits of diverse ideas.
According to the theater program head, Caitlin Widner, the student-run productions foster an environment of creative freedom. Each student contributes uniquely, whether through acting, set design, or hair and makeup. “They all have their niche things that they do,” she explained, adding that this passion for theater creates a vibrant community.
The shows are funded through ticket sales and a participation fee for students. Recently, the theater group’s booster program raised sufficient funds to acquire a scenic projector, which will enhance future productions, including a spring performance of “Shrek.”
Performances will take place in the school auditorium located at 1300 W. Old Liberty Road, Sykesville. Tickets are available for purchase online at scsl.booktix.com. For further inquiries, individuals can contact Gabriella Fine at [email protected] or at 443-900-1296.
