GPHS Productions class hosted the student-directed One Act Festival on Jan. 13, 2025. The Productions class split into six groups of three: one director, one stage manager, and one technical director to block a 10-minute play. Each group selected their one act, analyzed the script, selected their actors, led rehearsals, and coordinated all of the technical elements-- all organized in roughly one month.   

Elizabeth Dugan, a senior at GPHS, played Amber in Finals with Fellini and Chris in Coaster. Finals With Fellini follows a group of high school students as they prepare for and take their final exam under the supervision of their eccentric and unpredictable teacher, Fellini. The teacher's unconventional methods and bizarre personality create a tense, comedic atmosphere that tests the students' patience, creativity, and ability to think on their feet, ultimately teaching them important life lessons. Her favorite part of One Acts was watching the hard work: both in the classroom and behind the curtain, come to life onstage. She loved seeing how every rehearsal, every note, and every moment of problem‑solving added up to something the whole cast could be proud of. When asked if there was anything else she wanted people to know, she encouraged others to join the theatre club and experience the same sense of community and creativity. She hopes more students take the chance to build the kind of unforgettable memories this project gave her. 

Lilly Thompson, a junior at GPHS, directed Coaster and also stepped onstage as Maria. Coaster is a heartfelt romantic comedy centered around a couple who, while on a roller coaster, decide to have an honest and vulnerable conversation about their relationship. As they progress through the twists and turns of the coaster, their conversation mirrors the ups and downs of their romance, leading to deeper understanding, laughter, and a renewed sense of connection. Her favorite part of the One Acts was getting the chance to perform alongside a close friend. Sharing the stage with someone she trusts made the experience even more meaningful, turning rehearsals into something she looked forward to every day. For Lilly, the show wasn’t just about directing or acting; it was about creating something special with people who matter to her.

One Acts 2026 was a chance for students to learn new skills and create a wonderful show. New actors and old loved the experience it gave them and cannot wait for the next.