Drama students at Don Ross Secondary are blurring the lines between seats and stage with an audience participation show Mystery at Shady Acres. The show combines elements of mystery and comedy in a whodunit with an outspoken twist.
" [The play] allows some of the actors to talk to the audience and get their input on who they think did it," explained drama teacher Kathleen Riley.
While a few students have been experiencing onstage jitters, she said most of the cast has been eagerly donning the roles of Fairfaxes, bellhops and morbid chefs. The show, written by Michelle R. Davis it set in the English countryside during the 1920s.Her 22 drama students from Grades 9 and 10 have been using class time to prepare for the show. She said she has been impressed by their commitment to the project.
"They're a great group of kids and they're working really hard and they're all supporting each other," Riley said.The group is also getting support from art students, who are putting the "shady" in Shady Acres.
"It's a little bit of a flea bitten hotel on the outskirts of town," she explained.
Don Ross puts on just one show a year. Riley described how creating the show challenges students in ways course work may not.
"I think there's a million things they get from it: teamwork, self confidence. It's good for public speaking and definitely there's the satisfaction of being part of a team."
She said students are also learning how to keep lines fresh and use their body as an instrument.
Mystery at Shady Acres will begin at 7 p.m. on Jan. 15 and 16 in the multipurpose room at Don Ross Secondary. Tickets are $5 for adults, $2 for teens, and free for children 12 and under.
