This Wednesday, from 4-7 in the library, the Orion Drama Club will be holding Winter One Act Auditions. If you’ve ever had an interest in drama or theatre, but felt as if you didn’t want to make a huge commitment, then these one-acts are perfect for you! Winter One Acts are a fantastic way to get into Drama Club and only require about an hour of commitment per week. “It’s a good intro to Drama Club because it is a small commitment, but you’re still part of something big,” says sophomore Jamie Hoxsey.

Many people also join the Drama Club for the social aspect. Junior Max Johnson says, “…it is an opportunity to meet a group of people that basically act as a second family.” Junior Becky Perry shares a similar sentiment. “You get to meet a lot of new people you may not have crossed paths with otherwise. It’s generally a positive atmosphere.” Most members of the Drama Club agree that the friends you make are worth the nerve-racking audition. Emily Canterbury says, “I enjoy Drama Club because the group of people is funny, and they make me laugh. I always feel welcomed and happy when I’m with them.”

Max also enjoyed another part about Drama Club, perhaps too much.  When asked what the most exciting event was in the Drama Club, Max responded with, “When I got to hold a gun on stage. That was fun. Especially when I got to threaten Drew with said gun.” 

If you do happen to be interested in auditioning, summaries of all six of the plays and why each director decided to direct their specific play will be listed below. Five of the one-act plays will be student-directed, with the other one being directed by the Drama Club sponsor, Ms. Marta.

“Don’t Hang Up” directed by Ms. Marta – A young woman, on the verge of being committed to an eating disorder facility, decides she wants to end her life. But before she does, she calls a product hotline. Talking to the woman gives her courage and allows her to find strength in herself.  

“I love that it’s a message of hope, and I love that it’s handling something that my students have dealt with. It’s also my first all-female cast, which is what I am also excited for.” – Ms. Marta

“The Man Who Shot Santa Claus” directed by Max Johnson – Mr./Mrs. O’Banion is in court for the murder of the famous Christmas mascot, Santa Claus. While in court, we see that the only people that actually care about this case are O’Banion, the Prosecution, and the Defense. Will O’Banion be brought to justice, or will it be a year without Christmas?

“I find court to be very interesting, despite never being in a court in my life. What really sold me on the court setting was the court scene in To Kill a Mockingbird, my favorite book of all time.” – Max Johnson

“Surprise” directed by Ryan Dondanville – A young couple (Peter and Whitney) stop at a cheap diner after Peter accidentally ruins their night, which isn’t unusual because of his odd abilities. Peter has the gift to see into the future… but only by two minutes. After a dinner full of his annoying yet comedic psychic shenanigans, Whitney is ready to call it quits. Will their relationship survive the night?

“I chose to direct “Surprise” because of its small and entertaining cast. The characters in my show have a diverse sense of comedy, which I think will be very entertaining to the viewers.” – Ryan Dondanville

“Check Please” directed by Katelyn Border – The audience follows Guy and Girl through a slew of weird and really bad first dates, until they finally find each other to date. This show is made to show the funny and weird variations of blind first dates and is a show that requires high comedy and good secondary acting.

“I wanted to direct this show because of the fun and quirky nature. The show has much value too, as it is my first and I am very excited to start work with many capable actresses and actors.” – Katelyn Border

“Ferris Wheel” directed by Jamie Hoxsey – Two strangers get stuck on a ferris wheel; one is afraid of heights, the other is afraid of not smoking, both are afraid of each other. They form a special bond only two trapped on a ferris wheel could make. 

“I wanted to direct this because it’s a good mix between comedy and romance. At times it can be highly comedic, while at others it takes a more serious tone.” – Jamie Hoxsey

“Esla and Frinz Go Partying” directed by Drew DeKeyrel – This play follows two balloons, Esla and Frinz, as they contemplate the meaning and purpose of their lives at a children’s party. 

“Balloons. That’s why I directed this show. But in all seriousness, when I first read this script, I found it hilarious, and I wanted nothing more than to be able to put on a performance of [the show]. The eccentricity and quirkiness of this show was something that I did not see in other scripts, which is why I ultimately chose this play.” – Drew DeKeyrel