Beyond the Curtains: Challenges That Come in the Process of Preparing a School Play

Caption: Students from the performing arts class do a warm up exercise during one of the rehearsals during the 8th period elective class. [by Ana Luisa Helfer]

by Ana Luisa Helfer

One of the current traditions in the PACA Performing Arts Department is for the drama committee to come together to choose the annual play to be presented at the end of the first semester. Every year, the drama committee, consisting of two juniors and four students selected by Mr. Wesley Penteado, chooses a play to perform in the first semester of the school year.

This semester, the play is based on Louisa May Alcott’s famous book, “Little Women.” The Broadway musical play is also called “Little Women” and it is a musical with a book by Allan Knee, lyrics by Mindi Dickstein, and music by Jason Howland.

In recent weeks, the students in drama class have been rehearsing and practicing really hard. The play includes acting, singing and even dancing. In total, there are three teachers to guide the students and give them support.

Mr. Wesley Penteado is the main director of the play. Mr Gui Moisés is the assistant director who provides support and help. Natália França is a dance teacher at PACA and she is helping the ensemble to learn the dance they are going to perform in the play.

Caption: Students are using the scripts for the adaptation of the book “Little Women” into the Broadway musical play written by Allan Knee. [by Ana Luisa Helfer]

Putting together a school play is always an exciting journey, but it also comes with challenges and obstacles that test the patience and creativity of the people involved. It goes far beyond just memorizing the script, it requires dedication and discipline.

Mr. Guilherme Moisés, who has been helping with the drama class, talked about some difficulties that come in the rehearsal process.

He said, “The most challenging part of the rehearsals is coordinating 40 students full of energy.”

According to Moisés, in order for a play to work, it is important to have collaboration and self-control. This is a challenge when the class meets for only 45 minutes during four days of the week. To provide a more concentrated time of practice, the drama class is also preparing for their drama retreat. This is when they will have a full day of drama rehearsal that will take place on November 6 this year.

Beyond acting, there are countless other aspects to consider when bringing a script to life. The set, design, costumes, lighting, sound, makeup and stage management are all done by the backstage crew. Wesley Penteado carefully selects students with a diligent mind and working hands.

“For backstage, I always keep students who did a good job in the year before,” said Penteado, “and try to bring new students to learn the importance of backstage in a drama production and to replace those who are leaving.”

Despite the difficulties, the process of preparing a play is always rewarding and provides students and teachers with many lessons. There is a lesson that Mr. Gui Moisés was able to draw from the drama classes.

“You need to have patience and a sharp eye for detail,” said Moisés.

Patience is one of the most valuable qualities for both students and teachers involved in drama. They need to be patient not only with others, but with themselves too.

The performing arts play teaches discipline and perseverance. This discipline will be a critical need as the dates for the performance draw near. This year’s performance of “Little Women” takes place on November 21 and 22 in the PACA gym.