Maine West Spring Play

Maine West High School's Drama Department proudly presents a Spring Play that is so mysterious the title can't be revealed. This thriller opens on April 20 and runs through April 22. All performances are at 7:00 p.m.

Set in Menachap, California, this documentary-style play brings to life the terrifying events that occurred in February of 2022. Using information obtained from primary sources, the actors will recreate interviews with witnesses, loved ones, first responders, and the professionals investigating the case. As the horrifying details of the story are woven together, the audience will be lured into a dangerous web. Cast member Emma Mcgreevy says, "This show is so interesting and complex- but terrifying all the same. It keeps the audience on the edge of their seats for the entire show with all of its twists and turns." Due to the scary nature of the plot, this play is rated PG-13.

In the script, the playwright advises the cast not to give away the secrets in the plot. Director Judy Klingner is taking the playwright's instructions very seriously. She says that the entire audition process was a leap of faith. "Students auditioned for the show without knowing the title." Klingner also admits that the cast didn't learn the outcome of the story until the read-through at the first rehearsal. "It was fun to watch their reactions as the mystery unraveled."

The ensemble cast made up of 25 students is enjoying the unique concept of this play. According to 11th grader Emma Ohlson, "This play is really special because of the mystery leading up to it! The actors involved had a pinky swear circle. Therefore, we are not allowed to speak about the title or plot of the show to anyone who is not involved. It is a great advertising technique and it leaves the community wanting to be let in on the secret!"

Behind the scenes, the crew has been working diligently to design the set, which needs to represent many different locations. However, when asked about the most challenging aspect of the show, 12th grader Kris Modi responded, "There are so many technical cues- it's crazy." Modi is referring to the extensive use of lights, sound, and video in this production. Student Tech Director Sprig Velic explains that this is their first time using two live cameras for a show. "It's harder than it sounds. We have to project onto two different surfaces and use a split-screen technique while integrating the live-feed cameras."

Join the fun if you dare! Maine West's "Spring Play" runs April 20, 21, and 22 at 7 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at https://mainewesttheatre.seatyourself.biz or at the door. Admission is $7 for students and $10 for adults.