From Nov. 17 to Nov. 19, Sidwell students put on four productions of the fall play “Museum.” Written by Tina Howe in 1976, “Museum” follows a varied ensemble of skeptics, art connoisseurs, snobbish social elitists and foreigners coming to see the closing day of a modern art exhibit. Throughout the production, the chaos of the characters causes and resolves adversity while deepening the audience’s understanding of them as individuals.

        While the play’s success was in large part due to the skills and hard work of the cast and crew, the production would not have been possible without the guidance of Theater Arts Teacher and “Museum” director Sentell Harper and Technical Theater Teacher and technical director Rebecca Pfiel.Beyond the onstage action of the theatrical production, many components such as costumes, lighting, scenery and sound were crucial to the fluidity and success of the play. Many students and teachers contributed offstage through directing and technical support, which helped the production come together.

         Junior Izzy Fandl served as  the assistant director for “Museum” and helped Harper run rehearsals. The two split the cast into halves as one worked with the actors on running lines while the other would rehearse stage blocking. “It’s fun, and less of an endeavor than acting in the show, but still requires effort and thought and makes me feel like I am contributing to the production,” Fandl said.

Fandl was inspired to take on the position due to her love of directing for the screen and desire to delve into a directorial role in Sidwell’s theater department

         As the director, Harper aimed to not only guide and develop the students into becoming confident actors, but confident people as well. In both of his roles as a director and acting teacher, he encourages his students to step out of their comfort zones by creating a fun and engaging environment for their creative minds to flourish. 

Harper added, “My favorite part of the show was watching them make bold choices and watching their personalities shine through was wonderful.” The biggest takeaway that Harper hoped all of his students and actors would remember was to let their confidence show and stay true to their characters.

        Senior Audrey Acres was the co-stage manager who helped organize all the behind the scenes operations of the play. Along with her co-stage manager Tillie Owen, the two called the show by cueing lights, sound and actors over a headset. “It is super fun backstage, and everything is a party,” Acres added.

Acres and Owen both decided to join the play in large part due to their friends’ involvement. Acres mentioned that she has enjoyed working with her friends on productions and had fun doing her backstage duties, including operating the curtains and building sets.