The cast of the Senior School play take their final bows (MIS Photographer).
By Red B., Grade 9
As the spotlight dimmed, the clothesline emptied, the sounds of footsteps are heard on stage. When the lights come up, the 11 members of the cast and the two members of the stage crew take their final bows.
The final performance of “Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind“ took place in the PAC Friday, Nov. 10. The play ending left the actors feeling bittersweet and many were disappointed and sad that it ended.
“(It’s) The idea of being part of something bigger, you’re working to create something for other people,” said Jo B., Grade 9, a member of the cast. “You can just create this whole world and be a part of it and other people like it!”
For people unfamiliar with the play, “Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind” is 30 different plays all performed in sixty minutes or less, with some plays lasting ten seconds and others taking up to six minutes to perform. The cast almost finished within the time limit each of the three nights of performances.
Many cast members had similar opinions on their favourite plays. With hilarious plays like “Love, Alani” and “Lawsuit,” the cast had so much fun making this comedy come to life.
But not all plays were easy. Especially for cast members Jo and Freddie T., Grade 9, play number 27, “Revolution”, caused quite a bit of trouble for the cast and directors.
“It would have been easier if the script had been in order,” Freddie said.
The play, unlike many conventional plays was written in a way that the actors would perform five different acts in multiple different and confusing orders. It caused both performers in the scene much mental stress, they said. Until they looked at the play deeper.
“I did some work on it more…unpacking the scene and I actually really like it… There’s a lot there,” Jo said.
By the end, she said the scene was a great addition to the play.
The cast also had things to say about nerves.
“I know my lines, and then I just blank.” Alec W., Grade 10, said.
It is not uncommon for actors to mess up lines on stage, yet the cast managed to play off any and all mistakes in a way that made them feel like they were part of the script. But forgetting lines isn’t the only thing that could have prevented this amazing cast from performing well.
“That’s probably my biggest thing holding me back in theatre is that I get so freaked out about learning my lines,” Jo said. “I overthink it.”
Multiple cast members agreed. So, if you wish to become like these talented actors, don’t fret! You don’t have to be as fearless as everyone believes.
With the curtains closing on this wonderful production, that bittersweet feeling the cast feel will take some time to fade. But, no matter what, these actors will remain good friends for years to come.
“I think they’re all lovely people, We’re a very open-minded bunch of people.” Dora F., Grade 9 said.
Having my hair tied up for three days in a row was tough