El Paso Cappies

A Chemical Imbalance at Americas High School

 

"A Fine Performance" for Jekyll and Hyde

Eerie music and a dramatic setting set the stage for a night of laughter and mystery with Americas High School’s Friday night performance of “The Chemical Imbalance of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.”

The Chemical Imbalance of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, written by Lauren Wilson, was loosely based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Dr Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.” It is a fast paced comedy that requires the audience’s continuous attention. It revolves around the play’s title character Dr. Henry Jekyll who’s a scientist being pushed by his older sister Ambrosia to hurry up and propose to a Ms. Rosamunda Dewthistle before someone else does. However Jekyll is too preoccupied at the moment with his latest experiment, which is to learn why man is both good and evil, by making a potion that would scientifically separate the two aspects. But something goes horribly wrong and the potion turns Dr. Jekyll into the evil Mr. Hyde who wreaks havoc on anything and everything that comes in contact with him.

The comedic timing of the production and the cast’s obvious attention to character mannerisms is what really brought this whole play to life. The technical aspects of the show, such as the sets and costumes also played a big part in bringing life to the play.

Jacob Ledesma gave a humorous performance as both Henry Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. He worked well with the other characters in the play and really gave great energy to his evil transformations. Sarah Rae Parks, who played his sister Ambrosia Jekyll, did a fine job with her character mannerisms and maintaining her character’s nagging attitude throughout the show.

Elia Esparza, who played Lady Throckmortonshire had such an unbelievable presence the second she walked on stage, and it wasn’t just because of the wildly large hat she sported that was shaped like a teapot pouring tea on strawberries. The way she lengthened her sentences by using more syllables and her over the top laugh made her a very memorable character in the performance. Sylvia Hinojosa, who played Rosamunda Dewthistle, showed a good character arc in her performance and succeeded in mastering the sweet disposition and lovely nature of a young woman in love.

The design concept used during the show was very creative and kept the audience interested despite the fact that sometimes the actor’s articulation and projection was a little weak. The set consisted of three different levels, one for the Jekyll’s living and dining room, one for Dr. Jekyll’s laboratory, and one for the street scenes. The sound effects could have been practiced a bit more but they still came across as funny, which was the intention. The costumes were very like the one’s used during the time period of the 1890’s in London, England and were beautiful to look at.

At the end of the night Americas High School succeeded in giving a fine performance that included many laughs and really showed the time and effort that was put into each character.


by Caitlin Rodriguez of Eastwood High School

 

Murderous Mayhem at Americas High School

What mischief can happen when you have the presence of "duality of man" in two individuals in one room? "I'm the good one," says Calliope and Henry Jeckyll as they potray their normal side. The satire of good vs. evil, gives the mellodrama a twist in reality. The production prestented by Americas High School, "Chemical Imbalance: The Curious Case of Dr. Jeckyll and Mr. Hyde" written by Lauren Wilson, shows us exactly to what extent the double personality of a person can exceed.

In this murder mayhem, Ambrosia, Henry's sister,  is trying to get her brother to propose to Ms. Dewthistle before "it's too late." The wanting for a significant other in Henry's thought turns to be nearly impossible for him, as he is a supposed chemist and his bigger wanting is mixing chemicals to bid new ideas.

His mother's friend Lady Throckmortonshire has a daughter, that faces a double personality and is taken to Henry Jeckyll to access an answer to her daughter's behavior.

The two sides of her daughter are named Calliope and Penelope, as Penelope is the evil side and shows devil like characteristics and Calliope is an innocent little girl who is exposed to more than she can handle. Lady Throckmortonshire, played by Elia Esparza made the character come alive on stage, as she entered the room. This comedic actress gave a spice and humorous effect on what dark comedy should hold.

Henry is trying to inspect what exactly causes Calliope/Penelope to intermingle with each other. He takes a DNA sample from Calliope and mixes it with other chemicals to makes a drink out of it, so he can take hands on experience as to what he can do to cure her. Little did he know he would not find a cure, but only create bigger problems for himself by becomimg a maniac and a murderer naming himself Mr Hyde. The lighting effect on Henry's transformation to Mr. Hyde was done by body movement as the dramatic scene takes place.

Ms. Dewthistle, helplessly in love with Henry Jeckyll, is trying anything she can to get him to propose to her. Not knowing Henry has a double personality, she is persistant to win him over. Xavier Utterson, Henry's cousin, tries and help the situation Henry is in and talk to Ms. Dewthistle.

Dramatic effects took place as each victim was taken out with Mr. Hyde's stick. Although needing to improve projection and articulation, the actors followed through to make their point come across.

Overall, this production came out to be a successful event. Which makes you still wonder, if people are who they say they are, or who they assume to be.

by Terah Sustaita of Burges High

"Amazing" Marigolds

 

 The curtains at Burges High School open onto the scene of a late 1960’s home design. Flowered curtains, shag carpet, even a case of old coca cola bottles on the floor under the ironing board. This is the home of Beatrice Hunsdorfer and her two daughters, and the introduction into their lives done with dark lighting most certainly captures the atmosphere of this tragic and true life play.

"The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man In The Moon Marigolds" was first performed off Broadway in 1970 and made the jump to Broadway in 1971. It had a very successful run with several acclaimed awards attached to its name. The story is based on writer Paul Zindel’s life, and tells the story of his Schizophrenic mother, epileptic sister, and the trials and tribulations they face while trying to fit into a world that doesn’t always accept those that are different. The tragic story of their lives and broken dreams is an emotional roller coaster ride, going through the main character’s struggle to be accepted not only by the rest of the world, but by her own mother.

The role of Beatrice Hunsdorfer is an extremely complex character to take on, but Carolina Juarez never misses a beat through thrashing tantrums, hurtful words to her daughters, sarcastic charm, and subtle motherly affection all done in the breadth of a few minutes. Carolina was frighteningly brilliant.  Matilda "Tillie" Hunsdorfer's (a character that the playwright based on himself) love of science and learning creates distance between her and her mother who would prefer it if she were prettier instead. Michelle Gonzalez played Tillie with quiet intensity. Her yearning to be accepted shown on her face, her love of science and school was obvious and by the end of the production the tears on her face were real and effective.

The performance of epileptic sister Ruth Hunsdorfer by Marilyn Wallace was phenomenal. To portray a troubled young lady cannot be an easy feat, but Marilyn played her with ease. Her seizures were terrifying and her mannerisms were very realistic.

This amazing show could not have been possible without the help of its costume and stage crew. The lighting set the mood and tone for the play. The set was realistic and the costumes were nothing short of perfect. Mary Janes, mustard yellow jackets, brown overall dresses, and sweaters with bejeweled decorations made the time era very apparent. Student director Sarah Chacon hit a home run with this production. All in all this production was a heart wrenching ride that left several shaking with emotion.

by Amanda Gonzalez of Americas High School

"Wonderful" Marigolds at Burges High School

 

The lights come up on a beautiful young woman in a bright floral dress, the interior of a house clearly from the 1970’s, and her emotionally drained family frozen in time. In the background is a female’s voice describing the beauty of the atom in relation to her science fair project. This begins Burges High School’s performance of “The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-In-The-Moon Marigolds.”

The Pulitzer Prize- winning play was written by Paul Zindel and was based on his own tragic childhood.  Matilda “Tillie” Hunsdorfer, played by Michelle Gonzalez, is a painfully shy but exceptionally intelligent high school student whose experiment with marigolds wins her recognition at her school's science fair.

She has an older sister named Ruth who is an attractive, opinionated, young woman who unfortunately suffers from epilepsy. Both daughters are being raised by their mentally unstable mother, Beatrice Hunsdorfer, played by Carolina Juarez, who suffers from bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

The entire cast had an energy and commitment to their characters which shone in their performances. Practiced mannerisms became natural and real on the stage.  The set, lighting, and music added to the strength of the performance.

The lead actress, Carolina Juarez, who played Beatrice Hunsdorfer had  an unbelievable emotional connection with her character. When she had her fits of rage or excitability they were never overacted, they seemed real. It was that reality that she brought to her character that made her performance one of a kind.

The supporting actresses in the play, Michelle Gonzalez, who played Tillie Hunsdorfer, and Marilyn Wallace, who played Ruth Hunsdorfer also portrayed their characters' mannerisms very well. Tillle being the shy girl she is tended to contain her emotions, however raw they were, and you could see Michelle doing just that. When Ruth had a epileptic seizure during the show it didn’t seem exaggerated or unrealistic. Both actresses held their own in the show and contributed to the intensity of it all.

Burges High School did a wonderful job with the technical aspects of their show. The set clearly represented a house from the sixties and all the little props inside it, from the newspaper on the living room window, the trinkets on top of the refrigerator, and empty glass bottles in the recycling crate made for a realistic setting. The lights during the performance almost seemed to be a character within themselves. The whole house being lit up with sunshine during the day, and the two end lights that flicked on during the evening were very much similar to how light behaves in an actual house.

Burges High School did a commendable job with their production of “The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-In-The-Moon Marigolds.” The emotional content of the script was exceptionally difficult and every member of the cast handled it with poise and grace.

"Insightful Fiddler"

What if we were all rich men? What if tradition dictated our everyday lives? Would this make us a better society over all? Based on "Tevye and his Daughters" (or Tevye the Milkman) and other tales by Sholem Aleichem, Jerry Bock's famous musical "Fiddler on The Roof" takesus on a journey of extreme sadness and happiness, and that happens when morality clashes with tradition.

Tevye (Andrew Sianez) is a poor Jewish dairy farmer, who is at the center of this story. Mr. Sianez's performance as Tevye was enjoyable. He created a character that was witty, and quite fun to watch. Mr. Sianez had great stage presence as well as great comedic timing, always garnering many laughs. Not only did Mr. Sianez capture Tevye's witty side but his serious, devout one. This was a feat which added much to the production overall. Vocally Mr. Sianez was strong and on key. His vocal abilities helped portray Tevye's various struggles and added much to his overall portrayal of his character. Golde (Lili Abbud) is Tevye's nagging wife who only wants what's best for her daughters. Miss Abbud's portrayal of Golde was extremely enjoyable. She created a character that complimented Tevye on all levels. Miss Abbudd had great stage presence and her comedic timing was quite strong. Vocally Miss Abbud was spot on. Her vocal abilities were some of the night's best and anytime Miss Abbud sang her she made the songs her own, adding much to her portrayal of Golde.

The technical aspects of the show were pulled off nicely. Lighting was the strongest technical part of the show. The decision to have the show's lighting reflect the many phases of a day paid off tremendously, adding much to the believability and aesthetic value of the show. Sound was pulled off nicely as well. It never detracted from the show and was always on cue, when an actor was ready to start a musical number.

El Dorado's Theater Society succeeded in creating an engaging show, filled with many laughs and insightful moments, and if only for a moment made us all wonder what if we were all "rich" men?

by Freddie Dominguez of Ysleta High School

 

Fine "Fiddling" at El Dorado High School

El Dorado Theatre Society changes the tradition by performing the forever famous "Fiddler on the Roof!" Based on the tales of Sholem Aleichem and music by Jerry Bock this Tsarist Russian Musical set in 1905 starts the domino trend of changing the “tradition” and adding some love into their religious life. Tevye attempts to be a traditional Jewish father figure faced with five daughters determined to live their own lives. No wonder this musical was performed more than 3,000 times on Broadway.

The entire musical contained such a large cast that the illusion of a whole town was already present. The chorus was definitely well rounded and each had a characteristic continuously throughout the show. El Dorado’s production was very enjoyable from the moment the cast began “Tradition,” it immediately caught attention when Ms. Elizabeth Estrada as the Fiddler played the violin and the live band followed on. The lack of sopranos in the chorus was quickly forgotten when the strong altos cheerfully sang through each song. The energy was bursting through as each group of students did their solos.

It gets this much better when you realize the lead and confused father Tevye was played by Mr. Andrew Sianez the first time freshman. His switch from anger to happiness to turmoil was significant to watch. His performances were always with the highest energy even though his notes fell a little off at times. Sianez could definitely impress a crowd. His never satisfied wife Golde, (Ms. Lili Abbud) was the perfect role for her. The quality of her voice was sweet yet bold and the emotion she showed towards other characters spoke out loudly as a Jewish wife. Perchik (Victor Hankins) had a lovely voice and artistic movements. His devotion to changing the others led to his love for Hodel, Jordan Beard. Their chemistry during “Now I Have Everything” was very realistic and believable to the point where hearts sank in the audience for the couple.

The rather impressive Fyedka was a favorite of most. Donovan Gibbs came into his character with such passion and talent during the musical number “To Life.” The moment he was on stage Mr. Gibbs stole the show, and although it wasn’t as popular to break dance in Jewish villages, it was a fabulous contribution. Another couple with wonderful chemistry was Tzeitel and Motel, Cristina Martinez and Anthony Alvarado. They are the first that actually go against their fathers' not so good matchmaking skills and ask for their acceptance of their love. Ms. Martinez does a beautiful job of showing her true feelings and being strong in the short but intense scenes.

The Russian clan were very serious and clearly showed the anti-Semitism even in their short scenes. Although a few lacked the intensity, they stayed amazingly firm. Along with impressive actors, there were singers such as Ms. Briana Lally as the Grandma Tzeitel during Tevye’s dream. Her voice was soothing and she was definitely a strong soprano and a marvelous match for the role.

The lighting and set was perfect for the show, simple yet very useful and easy to move so there weren’t many long blackouts. The lighting operators and designers did a fabulous job in creating a day or night sequence.

El Dorado’s "Fiddler on the Roof" was commendable and organized. It spoke out to the audience and the energy increased from Act one to Act Two. It was simply as fabulous, especially the dancing.

by Elia Esparza of Americas High School

Haunting Sweeney Todd at Socorro High School

Darkness and Gloom Pervades Sweeney Todd

Sweeney Todd is back to instill fear into the place he once knew: London. He has returned for vengeance upon those who ruined his perfect life so long ago. With the help of Mrs. Lovett and his glimmering razors, he will get the retribution he has craved for so long. So went the story of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street performed by the students at Socorro High School.

Sweeney Todd is the story of Benjamin Barker, now Todd, who returns to London for revenge on Judge Turpin. Turpin has exiled him for fifteen years on a false charge, raped his wife, and has stolen his newborn child.

Sweeney Todd opened on Broadway on March 1, 1979 and ran for 557 performances. The music and lyrics were written by Stephen Sondheim and was based on the book by Hugh Wheeler. The play was nominated for nine Tony awards and won eight.

Socorro High School’s production, directed by Troy Herbort and Molly Alvarado, captured the London scene and pulled you into the story of the demon barber. Energy was high and the cast had a good understanding of their characters. The actors worked well with the intricate set and showed off their many talents.

Sweeney Todd, played by Logon Herbort, was a very disturbed man, and it showed. Herbort portrayed Todd’s hopelessness and lust for blood well. He captured a chilling nonchalant air  toward all of his victims. Mrs. Lovett, the woman who took Todd under her wing, and inspired him to act on his thoughts, was played wonderfully by Daniela Herrera. Herrera had high energy from the moment the curtain was opened to the moment it closed. Her love for Todd seeped through, as did her greed and jealousy. Her character was very well rounded even when expressed only through a subtle glance or movement.

Judge Turpin (Matt Murphy) and his evil henchman, Beadle (Abraham Quezada) were the perfect pair of corrupt politicians. Murphy and Quezada acted their parts skillfully and played off of each other nicely. Mauricio Perusquia, who played the shady salesman, Pirelli, acted his part well and added the much needed flair that Pirelli required. The accent he used fit the part precisely and he was not forgotten.

Beneath the darkness and gloom of Sweeney Todd, there was another story of love between Anthony and Johanna. Anthony, played by Victor Gonzalez, was a young man with a taste for adventure who soon found what he was looking for in the fair maiden, Johanna, played by Valeria Parada. The story gave the perfect balance between destruction and love. Victor and Valeria had great chemistry with each other as they tried to escape that darkness that was trapping them. They were very believable together and fun to watch.

The set was fantastic and it had the charming characteristics of a pop-up book. It was an elaborate maze with hidden compartments and doorways that would emerge throughout the show. Just when you thought you had it all figured out, another doorway would open and more people would materialize from out of nowhere, catching you off-guard. The set was balanced with wonderful lighting that set the tone throughout the play.

All in all, Socorro High School performed a very enjoyable play that was the perfect start to my Halloween night. The cast and crew alike deserve a great round of applause.


by Sarah Rae Parks of Americas High School

Sweeney Todd is Disturbing and Gruesome

He sits on the oversize chair, waiting for the barber to come and give him a smooth solid shave. He shivers as the cold shaving cream is being spread across his face. He waits, thinking nothing of it, as the silver knife is slowly starting to cut, when without warning his throat is slashed open, and the customer is staring at the angel of death. He, with many other men, has just been victim to a Sweeney Todd murder in Socorro High School's production of, “Sweeney Todd, The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.”

“Sweeney Todd, The Demon Barber of Fleet Street,” is a disturbing gruesome musical based on the outrageous murders of Sweeney Todd in London’s overcrowded streets. Sweeney Todd, who just escapes from prison, is out to seek revenge when he finds out that his wife has been sexually assaulted and his daughter taken away. Mrs. Lovett, a poor lonely soul, is bound to become successful with her pies, and does so. Leaving the story to unravel itself into a dramatic tragedy of revenge, hatred, and love.

Blood soaking on his shirt, Sweeney Todd (Logan Herbort) is a dramatic character who becomes a lunatic after receiving latest news about his wife and daughter.  Logan Herbort did a fantastic job at keeping the characterization of who Sweeney Todd was and why he commited the murders he did. At times, energy in the production lagged, but Herbort was always able to bring it back up.

The smell of sweet human flesh pies enchants Mrs. Lovett (Daniela Herrera) as she serves them to her customers. Herrera did an astonishing job in both singing and acting, letting her voice show Mrs. Lovett's true agenda. She was able to get the right pitch for singing and did an overwhelming job in the song, By the Sea. Her character was very distinctive from the rest of the actors, and she was able to bring energy to the stage when it needed it.

The ensemble had great chemistry and when singing together they had an outstanding song. Projection and energy was an issue at some points but they were able to bring back which helped lead to the suspenseful ending.

The scenery for Sweeney Todd was extraordinary it brings each scene a new surprise. Each part of the set was used well in each scene, and the surprise in set help show where they were at. The costumes were rightly selected, and they showed the time setting of London. Lighting and sound were on cue, and the props were correctly selected and creatively made for the show.

Sounds of sirens surround Mrs. Lovett Pie Shop as the officials enter only to find that tragedy has struck London again. Socorro High School's production, “Sweeney Todd, The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” was well performed by the cast.


by Andrew Duran of Burges High

An Irish Medea at Coronado High School

Tragedy Difficult to Watch

The Irish have a saying “Dream as if you’ll live forever, live as if you’ll die today.” This saying does not apply to Hester Swane, a middle aged woman who is having a hard time with life. With her divorced husband’s marriage in one hand and a sadistic “black swan” curse on the other, it is no wonder that Ms. Swane might be swinging off her hinges. "By the Bog of Cats" is a play based on the ancient Greek myth of Medea. It is a story of tragedy, love, sorrow and loneliness but most importantly it is a story of revenge, and how one woman achieves this revenge.

Coronado High School’s performance of By the Bog of Cats was well received. It was very difficult to watch (which for a tragedy is a compliment) and the right emotions were received. The entire company as a whole did a phenomenal job at performing this difficult script. Taylor Bencomo, who played the deranged Hester Swane, had an excellent stage presence. Her mannerisms were right on target and her accent was flawless. Although at times she struggled just a tad with some lines, she made it up by her amazing characterizations and her amazing ability to make the audience feel her pain. Brian Ceely, who played Carthage Kilbride (the ex-lover of Ms. Swane), did a good job at portraying the many emotions that his character experiences: pain, love, and pride, all which could be seen through the eyes of Ceely.

There were also many supporting roles throughout the show that helped the show become a success. Lillian Tarabulski, who played the free spirited daughter Josie Kilbride, was full of spunky energy. Whenever Tarabulski was on stage it lifted the mood on the stage and brought up the overall energy level. Tarabulski’s performance was enjoyable. Another enjoyable performance was that of Claudia Yoli, who played the crabby Mrs. Kilbride. Yoli did a fantastic job at playing the stuck up mother-in-law-to-be who butts into everyone’s business. Yoli was a very comedic character but at the same time kept the play real and did not over-act. Overall, the supporting roles were very well played and really added a lot to the show.

The lighting for this show was well done and the stage space was well used. The music for this show was also fantastic. The live violinist really helped to bring out the mood of the overall production. The back stage crew worked diligently to change scenes, although the scene changes were a bit lengthy the music between scene changes helped to make the scene transitions smoother.

Overall the show was a success and highly enjoyable. From the moment the show started to the curtain call at the end, the entire cast and crew found a way to keep the audience engaged in the story of Hester Swane's revenge.


by Sarah Serna of Ysleta High School

Greed, deceit, murder, and suicide in "By the Bog of Cats"

Greed, deceit, murder, and suicide are all major elements in Marina Carr's "By The Bog Of Cats." Coronado High School's rendition included these and many more as Director Victoria Anderson and student directors Claudia Yoli and Brian Ceely add their own unique spin on it.

Published in 1998, "By The Bog Of Cats" is loosely based on the Greek tragedy "Medea," where Medea is betrayed by her husband for a wealthier life with a younger bride. In The Bog of Cats Hester Swane is cast away on her lonesome by Carthage Kilbride for Caroline Cassidy and her wealth and farm in the bog. Carthage plans on leaving Hester without her child, Josie Kilbride, and banishing her to roam the bog with only her tinker caravan and her ability of hearing ghosts. Hester sacrifices everything by burning the farm, the house, and even the livestock, and eventually by taking Josie's and her own life.

With a lavishly lit minimalist and bare stage, light fog and cloud cutouts gave vision to a vast and mysterious bog, accompanied with medium paced action. Coronado High School's thespians achieved a brooding mood as they performed into the night. Chemistry between Taylor Bencomo (Hester Swane) and Lillian Tarabulski (Josie Kilbride) allowed the audience to envision an actual mother-daughter relationship, intertwined with the friction-filled intimacy between Colin Fischer (Xavier Cassidy) and Taylor. This chemistry kept the audience captivated.

Taylor Bencomo captured the feelings of love, hate, and revenge and presented the strong female role that is prominent in many Irish plays. Brian Ceely countered Taylor's frantic energy with a calm and logical yet bleak outlook on the situations presented to him. Strong accents conveyed Ireland's many dialects between the bog dwellers and the richer city people, although they were sometime lost when becoming excited.

A strong presence, voice, and thick accent are all things that Shakeisha Haynes (the Catwoman) gave when she appeared on stage. Her chemistry with Ian Eisenberg (Father Willow) during the wedding scene only added to her plethora of acting styles as she gave comic relief, yet was also able to make audience members grip their seats in suspense when on stage with Taylor. She strengthened the play's grasp on Classic Greek Theatre by foreseeing the future in her visions.

With a burning sun on the scrim, a light fog on stage, flashing lights, and a broad lighting plot, the technicians captured attention and enriched the onstage emotions produced by the actors.

Irish Theatre is hardly anything but bleak, and Coronado High School's Theatre Troupe showed that and more with their production of "By The Bog Of Cats."

by Jacob Perez of El Dorado

The Peanuts Gang Takes The Stage At Americas High School

    

"Marvelous"  Charlie Brown at Americas High School

    Perplexed, confused pensive children crowd the stage in a line awaiting the lights to come on. Americas Highs School production of “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown” was marvelous. The musical a compilation of Charles M. Schulz’s comic “The Peanuts” with music by Clark Gesner this made for a wonderful medium of happiness for comedic childhood innocence and dilemmas.

    This compilation of peanuts moments was done with all the classic characters and story plots, such as “The Kite,” The Doctor is In,” ”Beethoven Day,” and several others that takes us on a journey into long ago childhood or that peaceful Sunday morning. With classic characters like Charlie Brown (Alejandro Alba), Sally Brown (Elia Ezparza), Lucy (Alexandria Gonzales), Linus (Bobby Martinez), Schroeder (Jacob Ledesma), and that loveable beagle Snoopy (Amanda Gonzales).

    Alejandro Alba (Charlie Brown) well founded in his character, summoned several moments that brought a state of sheer innocent joy to the stage. Sally Brown was amazing; she did stupendous in her performance, and her singing was amazing. She had such an energy that fit the profile of the character so splendid. Her body movement fit that of a child while on stage and reacting to anything that happened. She flowed freely knew what she was doing, and grew intertwined with her character.

    Alexandria Gonzales (Lucy) was once again another great performer in this ensemble. Her energy was great; it was an amazing show on her part. Her choices during the play in songs like “Schroeder” her dainty gestures were perfect in such moments. Her voice was also very commendable, well tuned, and a pleasure to hear.  Jacob Ledesma (Schroeder) with his interpretation of the character and his gestures for piano playing was excellent. Amanda Gonzales (Snoopy) with her subtle voice and expression posed a comedic presence on stage that emitted the true aspects of Snoopy. She made the character her own while she held the integrity of the original Snoopy. As several of the characters during certain songs came out as a collective in an ensemble that did a great job an example is in ”Glee Club Rehearsal” or “Happiness” they had a beautiful chemistry that made the musical and also showed its true spirit.

    The props were genius, oversized items to help make them seem smaller. The piano player Nathan Gruenewald was phenomenal. Sound at times a little loud but overall with well orchestration helped move the play along.

    The actors performed this comedic musical expertly and beautifully. I was happy to see this show and I must say it has changed my philosophy on life.

by Alejandro Hinojos of Eastwood High School

"You're A Good Man Charlie Brown"  Makes Life's Troubles Go Away

    The world is always filled with grown-up problems. People rush to their dreaded meetings or hardly slow things down in their daily routine to have a chance to breathe. Most of the time, things such as these have caused people to forget the little things in life that they enjoyed as a child. Americas High School’s production of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” brings out the child within us, reminding us of the simplicity of life that made everything joyous.

    Based on the “Peanuts” comic strip by Charles M. Shultz, which has been entertaining readers since 1950, “Charlie Brown” reveals the amusing daily problems of five elementary school children and their imaginative dog, Snoopy.

    Americas High School’s cast has found their individual child, letting them out and adding good childish energy, giving their character life.

    Portraying the unconfident Charlie Brown who almost always views himself as “utterly blah,” Alejandro Alba sometimes dropped his energy level, but he had good amounts of brotherly affection towards his younger sister whenever she needs support. Alba was enjoyable when he was trying to give Lucy a Valentine’s Day card as he was failing to fight the nervousness overpowering him.

    Alexandria Justine Gonzales, playing the aggressively demanding Lucy, conveys pleasing amounts of energy both vocally and physically. She stood out in “Little Known Facts,” when singing and becoming fascinated by the simplest things around her. Her movements around the stage were well done especially whenever she became angry towards others if she didn’t get her way. She also had good chemistry with everyone as she tried to have her way or get someone to agree with her, making it very amusing.

    The game of “chasing rabbits” between Charlie’s younger sister, Sally, and their dog, Snoopy (played by Elia Esparza and Amanda Gonzalez), was enjoyable when they took advantage of their space and took their game past the stage, going about the theatre. Ms. Esparza’s reactions to the unfortunate dropping of her grades in school are comical when she begins to think of ideas to make her situation better.

    In “The Book Report,” everyone’s combined energy helped reveal their personalities to the fullest. Linus and Schroeder (Bobby Martinez and Jacob Ledesma) both had good mannerisms as they became more interested in their writing. Seeing everyone’s reports as a whole, they all went deeper into their character and revealed their youthful side.

    Even though the microphones were picking up noises, the actor’s voices were still brought through well. The setting had a good simplicity with the use of the lettered blocks for multiple scenes. The enlargement of the pencils and television remote helped the cast appear more childlike and made it entertaining to see them write as if they were acually learning how to use a pencil.

    Americas High School’s production of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” is a show that will make life’s troubles go away and warm the hearts while bringing out the child within all of us.

by Christina Vargas of Socorro High School   

"Dead Man Walking" Gives Audiences a Lot to Think About

Actors Challenge Their Own Beliefs in "Dead Man Walking" 

The play "Dead Man Walking" tells the story of Matt Poncelet, played by Jorge Redondo, who is on death row accused of murder and rape. Set in the 1980's the play shows both sides of the death penalty. Helen Prejean, played by Mercedes Kreucher, meets Matt in prison a few weeks before his execution. When at the end Matt is executed he tells the parents of Hope, the girl that he raped, (Camile Castro) that he hopes his death will bring them some rest, but that killing Is not right.

"Dead Man Walking" directed by Pablo Jasso and Rex Wisenthal presented at Bel Air High School is a one-of-a-kind play. Not only because it was produced in a special arrangement with Tim Robbins and the DEAD MAN WALKING SCHOOL THEATER PROJECT, but because each student was told to create their own idea of their character. Part of this character development was also that they picked their own costumes and did their own research on the death penalty. Even though some of their personal views were absolutely opposite from what they performed, it was not noticeable once they got on stage.

At the very beginning of the play when the curtains open we see this amazing stage; it’s separated into different parts. In the middle there is half a cell where Matt is sitting. At the left there is a desk were Prejean is most of the first part of the play. On the back you can see little windows with metal bars to give the complete feeling of the prison. Elevated on the back left there are two chairs that would be in the house of Matt’s mother, played by Samantha Rubio. When parts of the scenery are not being used instead of being black, there is a dim, blue light.

When we first see Prejean it is obvious that she is a traditional woman, that she is worried about her community and that she is a woman of God. Matt appears as a middle aged man, sad and lost in a way. His southern accent was easy to understand and helped what he was saying greatly. Gilardy, played by Camille Castro, defends her point aggressively, which is to execute Matt, and have him plead guilty to all charges. What is most amazing is that after the performance she said that her beliefs are completely different from what her chartacter was arguing. There is also the mother of Matt, Lucille; even though she is a teenager she could portray that pain and suffering of a grown woman when she knows her son is about to be executed.

To finish, I just want to congratulate all the members of the theater troupe of Bel Air High School for doing such a great job with "Dead Man Walking." It was a very enjoyable play to watch and it showed the audience another side to the death penalty, to take home and analyze.


by Stephanie Ortega of Coronado High School

"Heart Wrenching" tale told in "Dead Man Walking" 

The heavily debated stance of capital punishment was brought on stage at the Bel Air High School Theater through the production of “Dead Man Walking.”  As the heart wrenching story unfolds the audience is persuaded to form their own opinion on their stand for the death sentence. The incredible journey of each character's role in relation to the death penalty is an enlightening experience.

Matthew Poncelet awaits the ticking time bomb of his inevitable fatal end on death row, in the Louisiana State Penitentiary.  The year is 1982 when Sister Helen Prejean becomes Poncelet’s spiritual mentor and manages to form an unusual bond of friendship with the inmate. As Sister Prejean helps Matt gradually come to terms with his own faults in the conviction of the children he has helped kidnap and murder, those related such as his mother and the parents of the teenagers killed must also find ways to cope with the given circumstance.

The set was designed with intricate detail giving a realistic effect, and allowing actors to move smoothly on stage from scene to scene. The chain-link fence and barred cells allowed one to feel as though they were actually in the physical and mental prisons of the characters.

Although the simultaneous slide show may have distracted the audience from the performance on stage, the supportive information and statistics were helpful and may be better justified separate from the play.  Familiarizing the audience with the reality of the situation was tactful, however, would have fulfilled its full purpose more effectively apart from the acting on stage.

Samantha Rubio, with the role of Matt’s mother Lucille, influenced those for the death penalty to better understand the true pain of a mother’s loss-regardless of the cause.  The connection with her character was manifested through the intuitive facial expressions of a mother along with fluent body language.  Rubio gave the show a dynamic twist that would have wonderful if used more consistently in some of the other scenes.

While mixed-period costumes may not have represented each character in their true light, these technicalities were preserved by convincing props such as the stretcher, tools to lethally inject Matt, and handcuffs.  In the last scene the blocking of Matt’s execution intertwined with the explanation of his story through flash back methods could have been executed differently as to induce less confusion amongst the audience.  However, the power of the scene was preserved as Jorge Redondo, the actor playing the role of Matthew Poncelet, asserted some justice to his character.

The overall production challenged the audience to form his/her own opinion with actual justifications presented by the actors.  Each character contributes an independent motive for the conclusion of every individual watching the play.  The play ends with a heavy final scene about facing the reality of punishment through death.


by Carolina Juarez of Burges High

You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown at Americas High School

Americas High School

Presents

You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown

Thursday, October 22 at 6:30pm

Friday, October 23 at 7:00pm

Saturday, October 24 at 6:30pm

The show is called “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”. The time of the action is "an average day in the life of Charlie Brown." It really is just that, a day made up of little moments picked from all the days of Charlie Brown, from Valentine's Day to the baseball season, from wild optimism to utter despair, all mixed in with the lives of his friends Lucy, Linus, Schroeder, Sally and Snoopy and strung together on the string of a single day, from bright uncertain morning to hopeful starlit evening. The show includes twelve wonderful numbers of the original version, such as My Blanket and Me, The Kite, The Baseball Game, Little Known Facts, Suppertime and Happiness. As well as including two new songs, Beethoven Day and My New Philosophy.

Americas High School • 12101 Pellicano • 937-3077

Adults -- $6.00

Students -- $4.00

Cash only