Stags on Stage

The St. Agnes Drama Club presented William Shakespeare's The Tempest in a block off Broadway performance this past weekend. (Cast and crew allowed me in for a sneak preview at their dress rehearsal where I was able take these promotional photos.)

Refusing to edit the text or water down the bard's language, director Kate  (word up to my homie) harnessed and honed the skills of these thespians, an endeavor made easier by drinking herself to sleep on one or two occasions. After months of rehearsal, most students had their lines memorized by the week of the play, proving, once again, the complete and sublime reliability the Stags always demonstrate.

With much to accomplish, Kate turned her 6th period Senior British Literature class into a sweatshop on the fifth floor early in the week, using free labor to design and fit costumes. They attacked the matter with earnest determination and all attempts to look cool for the camera were erased by the presence of lace.













The result was a smashing success!

Working the front of the house both nights, I watched tickets being sold faster than most Stags walk to homeroom. Folded chairs set out for the occasion filled up, the lights went down, Kate cued up "lightening and thunder" sound effects back stage using a microphone and stereo, and the Tempest began.

Throughout the evening love was fought for and won.

A monster and two drunkards plotted to take over the island.













The Duke of Milan and his sprite Ariel cast a spell over the lords.














And some self-choreographed dirty dancing was performed at the wedding of Ferdinand and Miranda.





Congratulations to everyone involved! An impressive and delightful achievement. Go Stags.