The premier performance of the newly formed Chardon Middle School Drama Club sponsored by the Geauga Lyric Theater Guild will be held at the Geauga Theater in Chardon on November 13 at 7 p.m. A $5 donation is being collected at the door and the public is invited to attend.
The cast of 24 includes sixth, seventh, and eighth graders from Chardon Middle School who will present Hoodie, a timely and amusing vignette style play reflecting many of the trials of being a middle school student of today.
“Hoodie,” written by Lindsay Price and used with permission from Theatrefolk of Canada, examines issues surrounding “fitting in,” how appearances affect our behavior, and how others view and treat us. It challenges the audience to decide, “Do I stand alone or stay in the Clump?”
The CMS Drama Club was formed after a year of planning and discussions as a response to student and parent interest. Enrollees attend club meetings held at Chardon Middle School each Thursday that not only involve preparation for the upcoming performance, but also provide opportunities to develop basic theatric skills designed to improve character development, self confidence and build community.
“GLTG is very excited to be able to connect with Chardon Schools in this educational venture. Our mission focuses on entertainment and education to enrich our community and providing this opportunity for more area youth is a perfect fit,” states the Drama Club advisor and director of “Hoodie,” Julie Douglass. “We are having a blast putting this show together and hope our audience will enjoy it.”
Douglass is assisted by Matt Gittens, Faith McGee, and Lauren Tommer, high school students who have volunteered to share their passion for theater with the middle school students. They in return are developing leadership skills. “The interaction between the interns and students is remarkable. They have demonstrated not just mutual respect, but a great cooperative spirit that makes the process fun for all,” Douglass said.
Geauga Lyric Theater Guild plans on sponsoring a second semester drama club at Chardon Middle School with sign-ups in late January for interested students, presenting a musical production at Geauga Theater in late spring.
Geauga Theater is located at 101 Water St., Chardon. Inquiries may be directed to the GLTG Business Office at 106 Water St., or by calling 440-285-7701.
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