Winter Synergy Blending the Arts at PHS
The cast and crew of “Run Down” busy rehearsing
Tomorrow, January 21 2016 at 7:00pm, Preston classes will come together in a drama, vocal, and instrumental showcase of student curricular work in the annual Winter Synergy Production. Performances will include a piece by the Grade 11 drama class, a ‘Stairway To Heaven’ revival by guitarists Jon Radic and Dan Brown, as well as individual, pair, and ensemble performances by the Grade Nine vocals class.
The Panther Prowl got an exclusive look at the Grade 11 drama class, hard at work on their collective creation piece entitled, "Run Down." Students are collaborating in a multitude of roles including acting, directing, and technical production to create a one of a kind performance.
“This year's Grade 11 synergy performance will be more symbolic with more hidden messages. It will require close attention and thought” said student director Amy Bowman, “The piece will be about helping another for the sake of lending a hand, because that's what we as human beings are intended to do!”
Actor Emily Hartman added, “It is a collection of movement pieces, dialogue, tableau... the central focus is the concept of human beings working together to strive for a better world.”
Synergy will take place on the cafeteria stage. When asked about the transition from the classroom to a live performance, actor Charlotte Cleve said, “This will be my first time performing on the big stage! Although I am a bit nervous, I feel very comfortable performing with the other students in my class and I know it will be a great show!”
The class came back from their holidays with two and a half weeks to put a show together. Luckily, these Panthers have really stepped up to the plate. Through an admirable display of teamwork and determination, the class has come together. “This piece has really been challenging as an actor because of all the symbolism we have incorporated into it. That being said, it will be one very unique show because of all the artistic input everyone has been contributing!” said Cleve.
Students also got a chance to step up behind the scenes. “We create the lighting and sound ourselves by having an artistic vision about the shape of the show” said technician Maddy Mullins. With her partner in crime Hunter Bird, Mullins will be up in the booth on show night running lighting and sound for the entire show.
When asked what audiences have to look forward to, Hartman stated, “I really enjoy the stories of the main characters, as well as how the ensemble members and their characters motifs enhance the stories themselves. Everyone has a big part in creating this piece of devised theatre!” Bowman stated that, “The audience can look forward to a moving performance that will drive our positive human spirit.”
Tickets will be sold at the door for $4 each. Synergy is sure to be a showcase of great Preston talent that you do not want to miss.