The execution
Feb 2, 2017
For Maria Vargas, senior, the HHS theater program, Royal Productions, has been a place in which people come together. In the One Acts, Royal Productions’ winter performance, Vargas has had the opportunity to see a new side of the theater department— she is working as a Stage Manager rather than acting in one of the plays.
“This time around I’m stage managing, and there is something about not being a part of the cast that really gets you to meet new people and feel like you fit in in every aspect of the program,” Vargas said.
Vargas is one of about 70 students who are working to make One Acts happen, including actors, stage managers and costumers. Over the past eight weeks, the crew has been rewriting scripts and rehearsing multiple times a week in order to produce the best possible show.
In contrast to the Royal Productions fall musical and spring play, One Acts offer actors a unique opportunity to hone in on their skills, given the smaller scale of the productions. Additionally, it allows new students an opportunity to be introduced to theater in a less intimidating environment.
“The One Acts give newer people an opportunity to get integrated into the program. It gives you a chance to hone your acting ability. They are much more low key.” said Sophia Peifer, senior.
This year, the One Act plays being performed are “Sovereignty,” “Journey You Need,” “Citizen’s Arrest,” “Freefalling,” and “After Midnight-Before Dawn,” the competition One Act being performed at the Minnesota State High School League 6AA One Act Play Competition. Each One Act ties into a central theme: the secrets of everyday life and everyday people.
“The theme we tried to incorporate, which you can see on the posters, is what is hiding behind the door,” Pfeiffer said. “This year, the majority are more intense than funny,” Vargas said.
The One Acts are showing Feb. 2, 3, and 4 at 7p.m in the HHS Little Theater. Tickets are available for purchase at the door only, and the admission price is $5 for students/seniors and $7 for adults.