This article first appeared in the St. Louis Beacon, Nov. 15, 2011 - "Distracted," a play all about ADD/ADHD was written in 2007 by Lisa Loomer based on her experiences with her child, who has ADD. It is a different, contemporary play that features soliloquies and includes a touch of sarcasm in the script.
On Nov. 11, Francis Howell High School performed "Distracted." The play is about a mom and her struggles with her 9-year-old child, Jesse, who shows symptoms of ADD/ADHD. The father also shows signs of ADD, pointing out that ADD is hereditary. The mom and dad speak with Jesse's teacher, doctor and psychiatrist about what they should do. The dad is upset after he learns that Jesse does in fact have ADD.
The lead character is the mother, played by Ashley Unland. The play focuses around her and her reactions to all of the events caused from Jesse's ADD. This role calls for a huge memorization of lines, but Unland executed her role impressively, providing believable emotion and energy to her character. Nic Branson, who played the father, performed his role nicely with confidence. Branson proved to be one of the strongest performers of the night.
One of the neighbors, Vera, played by Katie Angeli, is humorous and bizarre, providing a decent load of laughter for the show. Angeli spoke clearly and loudly, and portrayed her character's OCD adequately. Dr. Zavala, played by Danielle Hughes, is quirky, with many personal problems. Hughes acted the role of the fickle doctor successfully and added humor to the play. Hughes' other role as the teacher called for a Southern accent, which Hughes was consistent with throughout the show.
The set featured many colors, which contributed nicely to the theme of the play. The neon was a nice touch. The multiple rear projection screens proved useful throughout the performance. The set was sectioned abnormally but proved to be an interesting touch. The sound effects were appropriate and clear. The lighting what handled skillfully.
Overall, the characters acted their part well and were believable throughout the show. At times, they seemed to lose confidence, which affected the clarity of their voice. The technical aspects of the performance were notable and proved to compliment the theme and title of the show.
Ben Levine is a student at Parkway Central High School.
About the Cappies
The Critics and Awards Program for high school theater -- known as Cappies -- was formed in the aftermath of the Columbine shooting to celebrate writing and performing arts at America's high schools. It operates chapters across the nation.
St. Louis' program was launched in 2002-03.
At the end of the year, the top performers, technicians and reviewers are honored during a Tony-style gala.
The Beacon is happy to help spread the word by printing some reviews.