By Jeris Rathbun
This year’s play production “Mayor!” will be the first time in AHS One-Act history that has been written and directed by a student. “Mayor!” will debut a script written by junior Scott Bennett for this year’s 2024 competition season.
“I had originally started writing the play in the last couple months of my sophomore year. I planned out the story, made a rough draft, and then searched for feedback everywhere I could find it. I wanted the story to be the best it could be. Mrs. Haynes considered it equally as much to the other plays she had in mind when she was deciding which to use,” Scott said.
Auditions for cast and crew took place in late August, followed by the read-through and planning meetings in early September. Ever since, both cast and crew have been dedicated to making sure that the production can run as smoothly as possible for competitions. The cast has been working on perfecting their lines and characters, while the crew has been hammering down on making sure set pieces and props are put together.
During rehearsals, Director Blair and assistant director Kailey have been highlighting the importance of line memorization and punctuality, while also making it known that the activity is supposed to be just as enjoyable as it can be taxing.
“I feel that the characters I interact with on stage and I have had a lot of chemistry and even in personal relationships have become close. It's been wonderful bringing my first lead role to life! …The process of making a script come to life is never easy, but always so worth it. I cannot wait for our season to begin” junior Lena Groetzinger said, Groetzinger plays the main lead, Charlie.
Many find that One-Act is an activity that can be a safe place for them and a fun, creative outlet where everyone is surrounded by others who think the same.
“It’s a creative outlet for me and for students. Performing arts are great ways to express yourself,” Haynes said.
The preparation that has gone into this season is soon to be on display with the first performance on Nov. 5 at 7:00 P.M. as part of the Aurora-Gothenburg-Axtell triangular being hosted by Aurora.