Arts

Drama Workshop has been one of my favorite classes these past two years at RHS. I get to spend time with my friends, talk to the ever-interesting and enigmatic Mr. Gipple, and last but certainly not least, put on three great shows throughout the year. That being said, putting on a fall, winter, and spring show is certainly a challenging task that is not without its complications. When you’re a lead in a show, which I had the pleasure of being multiple times last year, the entire cast is counting on you to know your lines, blocking, and character inside and out so you can really deliver a convincing performance. However, with the small timeframe we have in between shows to memorize our lines and get everything ready (as these shows are student produced), it can be a chaotic endeavor. But, this year I discovered that along with the stress and challenges of being an actor in a show, it can be just as difficult to lead one.

Students in Drama Workshop have the unique opportunity their senior year to be a student director for one of the shows. This means that along with another student, you are writing out all the stage directions, telling the cast how you want lines to be delivered, figuring out a rehearsal schedule, and trying to make the show run as smoothly as possible. In order to do this, you have to have skills in time management, leadership, communication, and co-operation as you work with Mr. Gipple, the actors, stage crew, and your other director. In order for a show to be good, not only do the actors have to give an impressive performance, but the directing has to be done in a way that ensures that funny lines are funny, action is always going on, and the plot is constantly moving forward. I had an absolute blast figuring out how to make “Fools” as hysterical as possible with my co-director Katherine Thumm, and can say with great confidence that directing the show gave me lots of respect for people who have to direct and lead actors for a career! I’m very grateful for the skills I learned in the directing process as well, as I understand more than ever now that good planning and staying in touch with those you are working with is essential to success.

By William Simpson, senior