The Leonardtown High School theatre department is known for putting on outstanding plays and musicals, but the one show that stands out from the rest are the One Act plays. The One Acts are a series of short plays that are directed entirely by students. These student directors are picked by the theatre teacher, Mr. Fogle. The students that are most commonly picked to direct are Theatre 4 students, or seniors who have been very involved in the theatre department over their high school careers. The chosen student directors then pick plays and audition actors for their shows. There is a variety in these one act plays: some are dramas, some are comedies, and some are musical plays.
Each director has to cast actors, rehearse with each actor, and guide them along the way. Elisa Mattingly is the President of the Thespian Society, and is directing a One Act called Almost, Maine along with her best friend, Jordan Martin. Like the other directors, both Elisa and Jordan have been involved in theatre for a long time, and have been waiting to be able to direct a One Act. “I am extremely nervous, but really excited because I have waited to do this for four years. We have had our play picked out for six months and it is really exciting to watch it come to life” said Elisa about directing her first show.
Even though the directors may be nervous, they have been preparing themselves and their shows for months. They have planned out everything: stage directions, costumes, and everything in between. With six student directors, five shows, and dozens of actors, there is lots to be done before the night of the show. It can be extremely stressful at times, but watching the plays come together and seeing the talent of these students makes it worth it. Without a doubt, the LHS theatre department is sure to put on a spectacular show.
The Night of One Acts is on Friday, January 10th at 7 pm. Admission for everyone is free.