ECCSS Summer Theater Program working toward Friday evening performance
A lot of hard work and dedication typically goes into any theater production. There are lines to be learned, choreography to be rehearsed, costumes to be created, and set design that needs to take place. The Elk County Catholic School System’s Summer Theater Program is expediting the process this week as efforts are underway to have an entire production ready to go by Friday evening, when a performance of “Annie Jr.” will be held at 7 p.m. in the Elk County Catholic High School auditorium.
Alyssa Wendel is at the helm of the drama camp with assistance from Alicia Kim.
According to Wendel, 22 students in fourth through ninth grade are participating in this year’s camp. This is Wendel’s first year being involved.
“The last time they did it was probably three or four years ago,” Wendel said.
While Wendel admitted to being a bit nervous about everything being able to come together in a week, she shared that by Monday afternoon the participants had already learned one of the musical numbers for the show.
“They’ve already learned a piece,” Wendel said. “They auditioned first thing this morning. They were assigned parts. We read through the entire script. They learned choreography. It’s been a full day.”
Wendel noted that she also has a few student helpers older than ninth grade who are helping with props and costumes.
“They’re going to do a lot of crafting here in the next couple of days,” Wendel said.
The camp runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
Wendel encouraged members of the public to consider attending Friday’s performance to see how everything turns out.
“It’s free admission,” Wendel said. “We will have a box out if anybody wishes to donate to the program, but it’s certainly not required.”