Drama Club Presents a Captivating Performance

By: Rylee Palmer; Contributing Writer

Susanna Nix and Tylor Taylor mid argument as Bailee Farrens observes.

The annual fall play, presented by Centralia High School Drama Club, performed an adaptation of Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen November 17-19.  The CHS cafeteria held three showings of the play. 

Head drama director, Dr. Drew Darr shared how he chose this production, “I read this script for the first time three years ago and fell in love with this particular adaptation. Jane Austen is a favorite author of mine, and this is the strongest play adaptation of one of her works I have seen; kinetic, fun, but with all the heart and drama of the original novel.”

Technical director, Mrs. Lacey Erbschloe shares the same excitement. Erbschloe stated, “I am constantly impressed with the skills our students bring to the table and can memorize their parts in a small time period. The only part I am nervous for is potentially missing the play for my maternity leave.”

This year, 17 students took part in the production. Darr and Erbschloe’s optimism on the adaptation poured into many of the students. Some of the cast put in upwards of an hour a day outside of practice and school to prepare for their parts. 

Senior Elijah Hill participated in his third fall play this year. Hill stated, “Our biggest inspiration during this play was definitely our directors. Despite being very busy people, they would still find the time to run scenes with us and make sure we had our blocking and lines. I am very happy with how my last fall production turned out.”
   
The fall play is an essential tradition of the CHS drama department. The town's support by filling the seats, leads to a great experience for the audience and cast. On Friday afternoon the eighth graders got a first viewing of the play. This allows the drama club to display the opportunities available with the beginning of their high school experience right around the corner. To watch this production and past productions, keep an eye on the Panther Broadcast Channel on YouTube.