Q.) What can you tell me about the upcoming production? 

A.) The Outsiders is a very iconic story, new generations and old generations know the story, and it’s just a classic tale about two sides in a town, and how they conflict, and, y’know, the tragedies that come with, y’know, the segregation of the two social classes. 

Q.) Can you tell me how you feel about this being one of your last senior shows?

A.) It’s tough, it’s surreal— not in, like, a good way though; it’s scary. I’ve grown so fond of this company, and became so close with so many individuals. I want to make it a bang, and really as good of a show as I can before I’m gone.

Q.) It’s no secret the theatre company is running a little differently this year. Could you tell me a little bit more about how the theatre company is structured now as well how you feel about the new student directed setup?

A.) It’s definitely tougher. We all grew familiar with Mr. Grossman and having an adult figure as our director, and being able to provide us with that guidance. It’s a bit of a different feeling, having a fellow student and a peer, y’know, tell you what to do. But it’s that same level of authority and you have to respect it. Although it might feel a little different at first, because you might be friends or acquaintances, at the end of the day this is a professional environment and, y’know, we have a new director, so we have to shift our attitude and just fully embrace ourselves in the production process. 

Q.) How do you think the outcome of this show will affect future productions?

A.) I think that we already have a great system going, and we’re going to leave a big impact on audiences, because of the story itself and the caliber of productions that our company always puts on… I think that people will recognize that, y’know, we’re not going anywhere, regardless of having a director or not, and despite all the obstacles that are thrown our way. We’re still going to create a fantastic production and impress audiences like we always do.

Q.) What, if any, are your most major concerns for the show?

A.) I guess… just, the reality of things, making things come to life, because you can always have hope, and, y’know, stay positive and optimistic that things will go our way, but realistically, it might turn out differently than how we expect, y’know? With budgeting, and different aspects in the show, such as set and what we can acquire, just… it’s going to be a rocky road at some points, so hopefully we can still get to our end goal regardless of the difficulties along the way.

Q.) What would you say to people who are interested in theatre in order to convince them to join the company (at the current state that it’s in now)?

A.) You as an individual are really the backbone of the company. We might have authoritative figures and directors, but at the end of the day the company is made up of people who come together to create art, who love it. Without the actors or the techies or just any individual, y’know, it can’t happen. Every single person is important. Take a leap of faith, and try something out, you’ll never know how it turns out.

The Outsiders will be performed in the auditorium at Franklin High School, from November 1 to November 3.