Last week, our thespians performed Girls in the Boat, a play by Alice Austen. Girls in the Boat is about the adversity, teamwork and power of women who unite for a common goal. This show was carefully organized by devoted and passionate individuals who worked endlessly to entertain us while bringing awareness to the hardships faced by women in society. Theater teacher and director of this piece Mr. Budd, along with the coordinators and performers, eagerly answered questions about their hopes and the overall process leading to the formation of this production.
“To me theater is the immediate expression of emotions, person to person, soul to soul. It happens at the moment. We’re really creating something different” stated Mr. Budd. “This production was actually chosen by the students. I think it had a lot to do with the fact that it contained a real and important message. Working with everyone has been revitalizing: we have a group of actors here who really love the art, and when you see that spark they understand what it means to do stories like this, it motivates you” he continued.
When asked whether they faced hardships, many of the crew members laughed, recalling technical or performative issues faced throughout the rehearsals. “Theater helped me meet a lot of people. The biggest challenge for this play was the stress of it all I would say. At the end of the day, I’m doing my best, which is coming out of the production. Overall, I really hope that women, and even young girls in the audience feel empowered when we actually go on stage” stated senior Elsa Remington, Prop Chief.
“Managing the show has been pretty stressful, but it’s also been rewarding to see it come together. We started from words on paper, to this [referring to the performance] which I find incredible,” added senior Chase Marshall, Production Manager and Lighting Chief.
“To me it’s all about building community. I’ve been doing it since my freshman year and it allowed me to socialize a lot. I love the crew, I love being on stage, I love it all. I saw a lot of fresh faces this year, and it feels great to help them get into the groove of things while ensuring that everyone feels comfortable,” expressed senior Madisyn Jones, portraying Stroke in the play.
Upon being asked for tips for those hesitant about joining the team, Freshman Claudia Quintero voiced the following: “I recommend they try it out. Even if auditioning is not what interests them, just taking the class and opening up to new experiences can be fun. I originally joined because my friends and I wanted to check it out.”
With three performances on November 14, 15 and 16, team spirit and collective efforts were shown. Adults and children alike had the pleasure to witness the talent of those on stage and in the wings. Joy and fulfillment, emotions experienced by both thespians and their audience following their portrayal of strong and resilient women who row their way through life’s shaky boat.
Congratulations to Titan Theatre on a successful performance! To any Olympia students, don’t hesitate to embark on the theater ship.
