AMPA theater students graced the stage this past weekend with a production of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night.
The play centers around two twins, Viola and Sebastian, who were separated at birth. Viola then disguises herself as a duke in order to have a better place in society. Because of her changed identity, many misconceptions arise, including a love triangle with her at the center.
Though Shakespeare can be intimidating for some, the Hollywood adaptation of the play made things easier to follow. “It was very 40’s-50’s,” says Lula Hart-Lumberger, an AMPA senior. Lula worked under the costuming team for the show. “All the makeup in the costumes are going to be old Hollywood.”
CAA junior Trinity Truin shared one of her favorite pieces from the show. “I really like Olivia’s dress, the wedding dress.”
Students were able to gather together, teaching themselves many impactful lessons along the way. “It’s been a very fun and eye-opening experience,” said Jonathan Sutherland, an AMPA senior. Sutherland played one of the twins, Sebastian.
Many cast and crew members created unexpected bonds with one another, even across grade levels. “I didn’t know a lot of the underclassmen at first … but I realized that all of them are really funny. They’re really cool people,” Sutherland said. The same is also expressed by the underclassmen. AMPA sophomore Eli Williams shared his experience being a part of Twelfth Night. “The cast are really nice, they’re really welcoming”.
On top of this, the show also helped people step into positions of leadership.
“It’s different from the other shows that I’ve done,” Marleen Almerez comments. “I just started stage managing even though I’ve been doing tech for all 4 years.” Marleen is an AMPA senior. She continued to comment on her feelings about the process. “It’s been hectic … but it’s helped me realize that it’s okay to be stern with people. Even if you’re friends with the people you’re surrounded by, you’re allowed to be serious and you’re allowed to be on task … you’re not being mean, you’re just doing your job.”
“This definitely taught me that within leadership, it’s good to have a connection with the people you’re working with.” said Frank Dawson. Frank is an AMPA sophomore who worked the sound board for the show.
Overall, Twelfth Night was a success for AMPA’s theater department. Be sure to stop by for more productions, and see the magic unfold on stage.
