playbill vip

A book people can connect to and have deep conversations about for years to come is what makes a book a classic.  Those conversations, inspired by the lessons of what the literature teaches us, is what makes the book stand the test of time.  I remember reading, The Great Gatsby when I was a Jr. at Mountain View High School.  That was 25 years ago.  From an actors perspective, studying the classics teaches us what good writing is; And, if we can perform difficult material well, then we can pretty much perform anything.

While directing Gatsby I had many challenges to overcome, but I also had a lot of leeway to make my own creative choices about who these characters were to me.  I was always relieved when my viewpoints made sense to the actors.  The high school performers in this show have also had huge challenges to overcome.  While they could conceive intellectually what these characters felt, they just simply haven't had enough time on the planet to relate to the love and torments that these characters emotionally experienced.  However, these theater students took huge emotional risks with each other.  I am very proud of their willingness to allow themselves to make eye contact and intimately connect with one another.  Showing their fellow actor who they are and in return accepting each other without judgment.  Teaching a high schooler not to judge is no easy fete!

Changing the subject to a more personal note, the following seniors will be graduating this year: Avery Simpson, Gabi Ceja, Lena Randall, Olivia Hubberstey, Jurney Oberosler, Charles Jaeger, Michael Bown, Madison Paul, Brenda Perdomo and Gerardo Rodriguez.  I have had the utmost pleasure working with these students.  They have been the back bone to this theater department and truly inspirational for others coming in new to the program.  Words can not describe how much they will be missed by me personally.  Our program is like one big pot of stew with each person bringing their own unique ingredient to the mix.  This department won't be as spicy without them!  xoxo ~Ms. Paris