ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The Spartan Players Present: RUMORS 

What happens when a high society dinner party turns to murder, deception, and chaos? In Rumors--penned by Neil Simon in 1987--a presumably dead host sets a string of lies ablaze. At an anniversary dinner party for the Deputy Mayor of New York and his wife, the guests arrive to find the host wounded by a gunshot and his wife missing. To avoid scandal and speculation, the couples invent lies and excuses, which spiral into mania. What starts with a cover-up by the first guests, Ken and Chris (played by Nazhon Sanders and Jada Dawson), turns to an elaborate ploy to keep the police from uncovering the chaos inside the house. The real story? Who knows. The show highlights the absurdity that often emerges from rumors and misunderstandings. 

The comedic nature of the show allows its lead actors to perform in ways they haven’t before. Senior E.J. Young compares this show to last season’s slate: “Compared to last year, this is a much more light-hearted and wacky comedy show. It’s more physically involving: there are more entrances, exits, and character acting, which lends itself to the chaos and comedy of the show, which makes it a fun juxtaposition to last year’s dramatic season. I’m very excited to be able to expand my range and experience a different genre during my senior year.”  

This show came with a twist. A small cast of 9 presented the opportunity for two casts of actors: a main Cast A and a Cast B, containing almost a full set of understudy actors, who have a set matinee performance to shine. Junior Alex Beaman understudies the role of Cookie, a chaotically crazy woman with chronic back pain. Beaman excitedly noted, “I’m deeply grateful to be an understudy for this show. There’s nothing better than doing what I love with the people I love so much. I love sharing the role with my Cast A counterpart and being able to bond over character choices, line memorization, and everything in between.”

Student Director Sophia Montalvo has had a blast watching the rehearsal process go down, “Helping direct Rumors has been such a joyride! It’s hard, yet rewarding, and absolutely the most hilarious show we’ve done so far. The actors and the crew are so incredibly talented, and it’s going to be one helluva show to watch.” 

“Most people think serious dramas are more challenging, but I think this group has learned that being funny on the spot is a lot harder than they thought. I love giving everyone new opportunities to try something different and build their skillsets. I am so proud of the hard work and dedication that have built another incredible Spartan Players Production. I hope that the community comes out to celebrate the talent of both the cast and crew.” - Ms. Gower

Rumors runs in the Ocean Township High School Auditorium from Thursday, November 20th to Saturday, November 22nd at 7pm with Cast A, and a Cast B performance will take place on Saturday, November 22nd at 2pm. Tickets are $12 at the door/$10 presale.