After the final curtain, the audience burst into spontaneous applause; the cast of “The Great All-American Musical Disaster” took a bow, and the play came to a close.

 

Though the play was not at all a disaster, the cast, according to  director and FHS theatre teacher Valena Cox, had its share of difficulties.

 

“The most difficult part of putting the play together was getting everyone to rehearsals at the same time,” she said. “It was a huge cast, and we only had one  rehearsal where everyone was there.”

 

The play utilized not only FHS students but community members such as Brad Blakemore and Joe Helmberger, who showcased their acting talents.

 

The production included 22 high school students, four junior high students, two exchange students, two teachers, two community members and nine children.

 

“There were several scenes that were hilarious and received a great deal of applause,” Cox said.

 

To a packed house both nights, audience members laughed as the pie-throwing scene took place.

 

“For the dress rehearsal, we used whipped cream, which was too milky. On opening night, we used mashed potatoes, which had hardened. On the last night, we used shaved cream, and although it took longer to clean up, it was hilarious and the audience loved it,” she said.

 

“The director and all the cast members agree that anyone who didn’t attend missed a great night of entertainment,” Cox said. 

 

The next production,held in the spring, will be the FHS one-act play competition entry.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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