Theater teacher Amber Gilbert began the journey of directing a dramatic, poetic, haunting play with her co-director and English teacher Minden Anderson this October. The cast and crew will be bringing to us “We Are The Sea.” The play promises themes of identity and connection through its powerful storytelling and emotional performance.
During this year’s auditions, students interested in an acting role were asked to do some improv and choreography. It is helpful if the actors are confident even when they aren’t and are able to pretend that they are. The directors also look for people who are willing to work with others and be collaborative, kind, and willing to receive feedback.
Students interested in the tech positions were broken into groups and sent to do tasks to see if they’re a leader or a follower.
“I do think that one part of creativity is that everyone’s able to be creative in some capacity, and I think finding what it is that you are good at or that you have a passion for is really important,” Gilbert said.
Gilbert tries to alternate between a comedy and drama each year. She also found a few inspirations when selecting this year’s play.
“I am inspired by the world around us. The events, the state of the world, what stories I believe need to be told. I also choose plays based upon, sometimes the kids I have the year prior that don’t graduate,” Gilbert said.
As the cast and crew prepare for their opening weekend, Gilbert is excited to show the community all of their hard work. She has also been excited to Anderson to be involved in the production.
“I’m really excited to do the show, Ms. Anderson is brand new to directing here at the high school, but she has done tons of directing outside of the high school. So I’m excited for everyone in theater to get to know her. She’s really amazing, is an amazing director and I think everyone’s gonna learn a lot from her,” Gilbert said.
The play opens Saturday, November 22nd and 1:00 p.m. Tickets and more information can be found on the school website.
