If you haven’t checked out Pt. 1, 2, and 3 of the Mighty People Behind the Fall Play, you’d better go check them out. It features Ichabod Crane, the main character played by Kyle Squire, Katrina van Tassel, the dream girl played by Delilah Schultz, and Crayon, the storyteller played by Claire Vandersee. However, if you want a quick refresh on this segment, you’re in luck.
If you still happen to be unaware, the West High Theatre Department is putting on Sleepy Hollow. It has four characters who share the responsibility of carrying the story of Sleepy Hollow forward. Those characters are Ichabod Crane, the stern pedagogue; Katrina van Tassel, the dream girl; Crayon, the storyteller; and Brom Bones, the maker of mischief. In this final week leading up to the big production, one actor will share their story each day, with a special guest for the final drop.
Our FINAL feature today is a special guest, the assistant director. She’s been in plays/musicals since she was in elementary school, and most recently has been spending her time as a verified judge/coach for the IHSSA for the last few years! Many know her husband but are not familiar with her; this is Regan Hirdler.
Q: Have you always had a passion for theatre?
A: You know I can’t think of a moment where I haven’t been enthralled by the notion of theatre and the arts. From when I was little and my mom would theatrically read me bedtime stories, to being onstage myself, and now to directing. Each stage of my life it has been prevalent. I think that’s because the art of understanding the emotions and perspectives of another person and being able to bring their character to life is quite beautiful. I truly just love a good story with compelling characters.
Q: How do you guys pick the shows?
A: Mr. Dawson and Mr. Hirdler actually pick the shows!! Mr. Dawson always asks me to read them and what my thoughts are but Mr. Dawson is like the encyclopedia of plays. He’s always thinking ahead of what hasn’t been done in a while or what play would suit the current students!
Q: How does casting work?
A: Well, we usually have monologues from the show we are doing to get a feel of how each student reads a character. During an audition, we ask ourselves different questions. What choices are they making? Do they use the space? Do they add any creative elements to their audition, etc. From there, Mr. Dawson, Mr. Hirdler, and I make notes on who reads a character well! Another consideration in the casting process is what role would challenge or help grow a student in their skill set. The growth of our student actors is always a priority!
Q: Where do you get your inspiration from?
A: Ok, I’m not entirely sure if this counts?? But I truly get excited or motivated for the end product! When you think about where the students started and how far they have taken a piece to get it performance-ready. When I can just sit back and watch the students have fun, be silly, be creative, and see the story come to life. It always warms my heart to see because it’s so dang cool!
Q: What is your favorite thing about directing?
A: I really do love the opportunity to get to know the students and make connections with them. Each student brings something unique to a show to make it happen. I love talking to them about their life, things going on, and how they are doing! It helps me understand where they are at and how I can communicate to hopefully bring out the best in them!
Q: What is your favorite part of this play?
A: Ok, if you haven’t yet, go watch the 35-minute cartoon of the Legend of Sleepy Hollow. I absolutely love that movie and watch it every Halloween. As someone who has thick Dutch heritage, this play hits close to home for me! This version of the play brings out the silliness that I remember feeling when I watched that cartoon as a kid! I love being immersed in the world of the 1800s countryside of the Netherlands in a very superstitious town. SO SPOOKY!
Q: Why should people come and audition for West High Theatre in the future?
A: I think the question should be Why not? Have you ever wanted to act like a bug? A French romantic? Or a ghost? Well, BOY DO I HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR YOU! It’s called speech and theatre at West High. Obviously, we do much more than just be bugs, but there’s always room for anyone who wants to explore the world of storytelling, who wants to work on their confidence/public speaking, or who is looking for a community. BUT WAIT THERE’S MORE. Are you interested in fashion? Great, you can help with costumes or makeup! Love design or artwork? Yup, you can work with social media, set design, and the design crew. There are so many opportunities for anyone. Theatre is beautiful! So why not try something new?
On that inspiring note, this feature comes to an end. If you haven’t been convinced to come see The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by now, what will? West High’s Theatre department is always welcoming newcomers, and the actors are rather excited for this production to commence. Last night was opening night. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students. You still have a chance to come see the show on 11/07 at 7 pm and 11/08 at 2 pm. Come out and support your fellow Wahawks!
