Both comedy and drama are waiting for those who attend the public performances of productions created by the NRHEG One-Act Contest play troupe on Friday and Saturday, Feb. 14 and 15 at 7:30 in the high school gym.
The opportunity for comedy is in the form of “Law and Order: Fairy Tale Unit,” by Jonathan Rand. Featuring more than 30 characters played by 21 different student actors, this fast-paced production is a spoof on typical television detective dramas, but uses characters from a variety of fairy tales. “We’ve practiced it dozens of times,” observes cast member Eden Eads, “but we still laugh every time.”
Fairy Tale Police Department (FTPD) detectives Cindy Rella and H. Dumpty are ordered to solve a high-stakes mystery involving the sudden collapse of homes owned by two of the three little pigs—and solve it quickly. “The surprise ending ties everything together,” comments student director Lexi Combs. “And leaves everyone laughing besides.”
After the 30-minute comedy and a brief intermission, the drama will begin.
“Walkin’ Home” by Steven Orth is a modern retelling of the story of the prodigal son—with some thought-provoking updates and additions. The audience will watch as one family member hovers outside her childhood home after a two-year absence, trying to decide whether she will be welcomed, while inside her sister and parents prepare their Thanksgiving Day dinner. While it may be obvious that “Sonja” is returning home, the way she decides to do so will provide an engaging journey for the audience.
NRHEG’s one-act cast and crew have been preparing and practicing for these productions since last November, when auditions were first held. “Walkin’ Home” was presented at the section competition on Jan. 29. Anyone with questions about the production can contact the school: 507-465-3205.