West Niagara’s original production of ‘Reminiscence’ creates new memories
Who are we, and who has power? Can we break out of a mould constructed for us?
An original play created by West Niagara Secondary School students not only prompts intellectual questions pondering social hierarchies and identity, but also lets people enjoy a flash from the past.
Set both in the present and two decades in the past, “Reminiscence” is a memory-oriented comedy about a 20-year reunion, inspiring the message of “You are who you are, and not who someone else thinks you are.”
Although this production was minimalistic with no set, simple black outfits and no makeup, the actors brought the characters to life as they depicted stereotypical high school students, and the audience watched as a story came to life with only four props, two chairs, and 29 actors.
As we are taken through the years from flip phones to TikTok, Caretaker Joan, played by Rae Daley, brought us from prom 2004 to a high school reunion in 2024. A prominent presence throughout, the Caretaker would enter the stage and promptly exit, always leaving the audience in stitches with her snide comments.
Similarly, Nate Arsenault played Mr. M, who instantly became a comedic showstopper with every line he delivered. Outstanding performances were also on display by both Scarlet Moodie and Maggie Heeringa, who played Prom Brittany and Adult Brittany.
As the role of Brittany personified growth, hope and regret, the actresses who played the past and present version of the character provided reminders of high school drama, as well as nostalgic thinking about previous years.
If there were any slip-ups, all actors were spectacular at masking them and incorporating mistakes into their character. Everyone on stage mastered the body language and speech of the student or teacher they played, which resulted in an incredible show.
While “Reminiscence” took place in two different time periods, the cast and crew made sure the audience wouldn’t get lost. Despite physical changes of the cast, as older versions of characters were different actors, distinctive accessories against the all-black outfits provided consistency while continuing the story 20 years later. References were also made to create a sense of time with “Shrek 2” notable in the 2004 setting, and brands such as Lululemon and Aritzia providing context for the current era.
While nostalgia might bring regrets, it has been said time heals all wounds. And, while some wounds may leave a scar, West Niagara High’s production reinforces the message that time also brings change, minimal or extreme, but most always positive and successful. So as the music played throughout the play brought back memories for some, the plot brought reminiscence and reflection to all in a fantastic and creative way.