The Carlmont High School Drama Department held the opening night of, “The Lion, The Witch, & The Wardrobe,” in the Carlmont Performing Arts Center (PAC) on Friday, Nov. 17.
This is the first drama production to be held in the PAC. Plays were previously held in the studio theater, which held only 70 people.
Drama Department Head and Co-Director Nancy Martin said, “We chose the PAC because we wanted it to be a grand production.”
The production of the play began three months ago, with planning and preparation going back more than a year.
According to Martin, the play was a massive time commitment for students. Rehearsals lasted from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. every Monday through Thursday. During the week leading up to the play, some rehearsals went as late as 10 p.m.
Tessa Bagby, a senior, said, “It’s really stressful, but because I love doing this so much it’s sort of a good stress.”
On the production side, the tech crew had a week to get up to speed with the play and set up all of the technical aspects of the play.
Soundboard operator Andres Raddevero, a sophomore, said, “It’s been pretty fun to see the show grow and develop.”
Reactions to the production from audience members were positive.
Sophomore Emma Lee said, “I thought the play was really cute and kind of funny. I loved seeing my friends up there having a good time.”
Many members of the audience agree that the play showcased several wonderful performances, one of which being sophomore Emily Krayn’s portrayal of Lucy Pevensie.
“Because Lucy was 8, I had to revert my sensibilities to that of an innocent 8-year-old,” said Krayn.
According to Martin, the next play will be Oscar Wilde’s “Importance of Being Earnest.” It will return to the studio theater.
“I think the message of hope pushed forth by this play is really important, especially today. I and my daughter have really enjoyed bringing these colorful characters to life, and we hope that people will enjoy watching this play as much as we enjoyed making it,” Martin said.
