Page 10 - Edge: Issue 6

ACTING
“Whose costume change is this?” “Somebody has my mic!” “I forgot my line.” Tech week in Edgewood drama productions is hectic, confusing, and one of the most fun parts of being in a show. Productions, however, are not the only part of the drama program at Edgewood. The drama department is actually split up into three parts: Mr. Chris Waterman’s drama classes, the Thespian Troupe sponsored by Ms. Susan Rhoden, and, finally, the shows, such as “Bye Bye Birdie”
or “The Tempest.”
In drama classes with Waterman,
students obtain basic theatre skills and learn about the wide world of theatre, including improvisation, script writing, and character development. Additionally, students involved in the drama classes are even able to advance their knowledge on Mythology and learn new skills. These
classes are meant to allow students to dip their toes into the theatre scene and expand their knowledge.
As someone who has taught Drama for more than 10 years and participated in more than 100 shows, Waterman is well versed in the subject of theatre. Waterman enjoys teaching the new drama students and letting their imaginations
run wild as they create their own scripts and performances.
“I would describe the kids in my class as artistically creative,” Waterman said.
The next division of the drama department on campus is the Thespian Troupe. This “troupe,” or group of performers, is filled with dedicated actors and technical performers who compete throughout the year in different competitions all around the county. However, the students can not simply join the troupe; in order to become a member of Thespians, a student must participate in at least two on-campus productions, such as the fall musical, the One Act (a shorter production),
or the spring straight play.
Rhoden is new to Edgewood’s troupe, having just become the sponsor two years ago. Though new, Ms. Rhoden is quite
familiar with the inner workings of Thespian Troupes, as she previously ran one at INSERT SCHOOL back in INSERT YEAR.
“INSERT QUOTE”
During the first semester, the Thespians compete at District 11 competition, in which they can choose to participate in a variety of categories, including Costume Design, Solo Monologue, Small Group Musical Performances, Playwriting, and more. Students can perform these small pieces from published shows and present them in front of a panel
of judges, who score them on a scale from Poor to Superior.
This year at District Competition, Edgewood’s Troupe received 14 Superior ratings
and 8 Excellents, affirming the Edgewood Indians’ performance and technical skills. The third and final portion of the drama department at Edgewood are the Harlequins. The Edgewood Harlequins are members of a group which creates the productions that Edgewood puts on every year: “Once Upon a Mattress,” “Zombie Prom,” “The
OUT.
Edgewood’s drama department takes center stage.
Story and photos by Shannon Stuckey and Shannon Reid
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“I would describe the kids in my class as artistically creative.” -Waterman