By Khrista Sayo
and Elissa Choi
The Mirror Staff
“We’ve done some serious work but not like this. It’s all about diversity, and I think that we can always use more information about diversity and the acceptance of people’s differences.”
FEATURE
Beyond the Curtains: The Elephant Man in the Making
THERESA NGUYEN
Step right up! The Elephant Man is making its debut in November 2016.
Mr. Randy Olea, the school’s head of the theatre department, is bringing about a melancholy atmosphere with their performance that contrasts the usual romantic and bittersweet tones of many of the school plays, such as Almost, Maine to Anything Goes.
The Elephant Man is based on a true story that reveals a deeper meaning about social acceptance from a man whose physical appearance is not of the “norm.” The Elephant Man is so important because it’s about someone who is different.
“It’s about the old conception of beauty being in the eye of the beholder,” said Mr. Olea. “He was grotesque on the outside, but he was incredibly beautiful and unique on the inside.”
The Elephant Man takes place in London during the Victorian era. The story revolves around Joseph Merrick, who was born with Elephantiasis.
This rare condition caused a deformity to his face, making him a pariah. His facial features forces him to become a circus oddity.
But this was until Frederick Treves, a surgeon, rescued Merrick and cared for him at the London Hospital. However, Merrick eventually succumbs to his illness and passes away.
Staging a serious performance requires a seasoned director and coordinator, such as Mr. Olea. Having been a professional actor for many years, he knows that staging a play isn’t always as easy as it seems.
Casting the right people, figuring out the positions of the actors and props, costuming, lighting, and the appropriate music are all parts of producing an entertaining performance.
“It’s a serious play,” he comments. He emphasizes the important message of love and tolerance that is expressed in the play.
“We’ve done some serious work but not like this. It’s all about diversity, and I think that we can always use more information about diversity and the acceptance of people’s differences.”
Many obstacles come up throughout production. The cast rehearses every Monday to Saturday, from 3:30 PM to 5:45 PM, which requires immense dedication from each crew and cast member involved.
“It’s very strenuous and it takes a heck of a commitment,” said Mr. Olea. “A lot of these kids are doing other things; they’re singing, dancing, playing instruments. They’re sportsmen and sportswomen.”
“There are also parental demands. There are a number of other aspects that are imposing on the students that we have to deal with.”
Because of the limited time the students are given throughout rehearsals, the average time it takes to produce a play takes around 10-15 weeks.
Aside from the difficulties, Mr. Olea loves seeing his students bond as a family.
“By putting it all together and watching the creation of every show, there is a family created by these students. They become much closer and many of their relationships will last throughout their career. I see the making of incredible friendships.”
Most importantly, Mr. Olea encourages his students or anyone with dreams and expectations to “follow their bliss.” He states that no matter what you want to become, it’s all about commitment.
“There will be some detours here and there and things that will interrupt your life, but it’s very important to keep your eyes on the prize.”
Matinee shows of The Elephant Man are on November 3, 10, 12 at 3:45 PM. Evening showings are on November 4, 5, 12 at 7 PM. General admission is $10, presale tickets are $8 and children under 6 enter the show for free.
