This article first appeared in the St. Louis Beacon, April 4, 2011 - In a time of life when raging hormones and AP physics collide, how can a new freshman make it through the treacherous battlegrounds of high school without being shoved in a dumpster? Northwest High School answers this question with a little help from clubs, cliques and the lunch lady in its play, "The High- Schooler's Guide to the Galaxy."
"The High-Schooler's Guide to the Galaxy," written by Bryan Starchman, was originally performed at Mariposa High School in Mariposa, Calif. The play centers around four students on the eve of their first day of high school who are instructed by the narrators on how to survive the four most awkward years of their lives. Through a series of vignettes, the freshmen are given the inside scoop on everything ranging from school dances, to gym class, to what really happens when you don't serve your detentions.
Each member of the large ensemble cast of Northwest High School's production carried the show with their energy and enthusiasm, no matter the amount of stage time they had. The constant change of characters and humorous situations kept the audience laughing the whole time.
Nate Camden stood out in his various roles, showcasing his comedic ability as he sneakily edited the French Club's sign and hilariously retold the consequences of shaving a hairy chest with mom's pink disposable razors.
Brandon Janssen was memorable in his characterization of the wimpy kid and always prompted smiles from the audience while onstage. The play's narrators, played by Cody Dickerson and Brandon Meshell, anchored the show with their clear and articulate performances as the strong voices of reason and advice.
Stephanie Folks created distinct and striking characters as the apathetic president of the Anti-Club Club and the intimidating field hockey captain. Giving a dry and understated yet effective portrayal of a worn-out assistant principal, Julie Creath held her own onstage as she gave an extended monologue about budget cuts. Arianna Rice had an impressive turn as the ornery secretary, as she grabbed attention with her stage presence. Although some scenes were less successful because of flat or cliché acting, the majority were pulled off well.
The set for the production was fairly minimalistic but was beautifully decorated by Nikki Brown and Xavior Thilking. Although they were a little rough at the beginning, the lighting and spots (Kyle Rego, Lacie Lohse, and Ali Ecker) were effective in accentuating the action. The costumes (Abby Mayher) were appropriate and occasionally hilarious, especially in the case of the lunch lad, and helped define the characters.
Using a flexible cast to achieve hilarious results in "The High-Schooler's Guide to the Galaxy," Northwest High School took the audience on a entertaining ride "to the classroom and beyond!"
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.
This year, 16 schools are participating, producing 32 shows. Some 195 student critics will write nearly 1,000 reviews of the productions.
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 of the reviews.