The stage lights dim and the curtains open as the CHS drama club prepares to perform their competition piece, “Tracks.” Coming off an outstanding competition last year, with two performers going on to the international level, drama club has set the stage for another great performance.
“Everybody’s been working really hard to improve since last year as we have incredibly high hopes of making it farther than we have in the past,” stated club president and senior, Kyler Effner.
With six people at state and nearly everyone earning excellent scores in their first contest, the club is shooting to make it to state as an entire group this year.
According to senior dance captain, Mady Hawkins, “Tracks is an engaging one act play about people in every walk of life having something in common.”
One of the key factors that can make or break a performance is the connectivity of the cast. One way the drama club is seeking to improve their scores is by strengthening their bond.
“(We) plan meetings each week and create a face for members to come with things they need,” explained Effner.
By giving younger members a group of polished performers to turn to and feel comfortable with, the whole club is becoming more close knit and efficient in getting things accomplished. Another way the club is helping to facilitate growth is by actively preparing the future of drama club.
“As officers, we have planned events that intend to promote the growth and awareness of the club,” said Hawkins.
Activities have helped facilitate the club’s growth. One such way they do so is by having bake sales at many of the school’s home games.
On a deeper level, for many, drama club is an outlet for performers and has helped participants grow as people.
“Drama club has helped me become a more confident person and has encouraged me to grow more and experience more. It helped me to become less scared of basic life stuff,” explained Effner.
Not only does drama club facilitate personal resilience and growth, but its atmosphere and group has created a family-like bond for the club.
“Drama club has been a home to me for the past three years, so I love the bond I have with everyone there,” said Hawkins.
It’s safe to say that drama club is not only set up to have a promising year, but a promising future, with a promising and tight- knit group.
“I love how well the club brings people from all kinds of disciplines together. We have athletes, activists, academics, and everything in between,” said Effner.
