This month, students at Mayfield High School are preparing for auditions for different roles in the upcoming production of The Addams Family Musical: School Edition, adapted from the original Broadway production.
Outside the audition room, excitement and energy filled the air as students read through scripts and rehearsed lines with peers. Some acted out scenes while others tested their vocals a cappella, preparing to bring their best to the stage.
Theatre Director Knut Brekke encourages all students, regardless of experience, to get involved, whether on stage or behind the scenes. Based on his experience as an educator, Mr. Brekke says that students who participate in theatre often build confidence, which helps them in other classes. He also notes that theatre encourages more reading and helps students become better presenters.
“Watching kids go from ‘I don’t know if I can do this’ to ‘When do I get to do this again?’ When that kind of development happens, you get a whole gamut of unexpected, wonderful things,” said Brekke.
From performance to visual design, audio and lighting, theatre offers a wide range of opportunities for students to explore their creativity and develop new skills. Izzy Roseboum, now a senior, began acting at the age of five and was a regular on stage by the time she was eight. Her early passion for theatre inspired her to continue performing during her final year of high school.
“Performing has really made me more confident overall,” said senior Izzy Rosenboum. “I love the rush of being on stage. You can feel the heat of the lights, and when you look out into the darkness of the audience, you finish a song, a dance sequence or a really powerful scene and for a second, it’s silent. Then you hear the clapping.”
Though smaller than other theatre programs in the state, the Mayfield Theatre class continues to be a creative and inclusive space where students are encouraged to take risks, make friends, grow and shine.
“My classmates all have their own unique talents. They each teach you something different, new ways to act, perform, and how to step out of your comfort zone. I’ve made some really good friends in this program,” said Rubi Ponce, a freshman at Mayfield.
The Mayfield High School Theatre Department invites the Las Cruces community to attend its upcoming performance, happening October 23 to 25. Evening shows will begin at 7 p.m. each night, with a special matinee on October 25 at 2 p.m. All performances will be held in the Mayfield High School Theatre Room.
“Audience members can expect plot twists, energetic dance numbers, lively singing, and just a really good time,” said sophomore Annabelle Wood.
Tickets will be available at the door (cash only): $8 for students with ID and $12 for general admission.
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