Students at St. Joseph school perform The Hobbit

 

Grade seven to 12 drama students at St. Joseph School performed their 2017 play, The Hobbit, last week including a matinee on Saturday, December 9. The sets, music, and costumes were a perfect fit and made for a fantastic show.

Director Ms. Karen Doran, said that the students were focused and ready to put their hearts into the play. “They have been absolutely and completely dedicated. There have been many, many obstacles that we had to trust would work out and, thankfully, they did.”

Students auditioned halfway through September and jumped into rehearsing immediately. Entering a new school and having to learn all the ins and outs of the different areas was certainly a trick at times but everyone worked great together to make it the best it could be. One of the biggest obstacles was the lack of both light and sound systems. Trusting in the Lord became a mantra as pieces slowly arrived including the lights, the sound system, and a curtain for the stage.

Ms. Doran has been directing plays at the school for six years and, sadly, this show will be her last. It made the selection of The Hobbit even more special as not only are the students part of a new journey in a new school, but their director is about to embark on one, as well.

As with other productions, the people behind the scenes are just as important as those on the stage. “Many community members and several students helped out with building sets, painting, and design. They just offer their services, even students helping out with concession, really makes the whole thing a community effort.”

As Ms. Doran wrapped up her final play performance at the school, she has a few words to share to her students. “I’m one of those people who demands a little bit more time than usual and they always step up to the plate and deliver, and that is something that is so honourable. If I could say anything to the students, it would be to always remember that you are part of this drama family and you make the family proud.”