South Park Drama Club To Present “The Outsiders” From Oct. 25-29
This story was first published in the October edition of the Park News.
For the cast and crew of South Park High School Drama Club’s fall play, The Outsiders, life isn't exactly imitating art, as the famous saying goes. It's more like English Language Arts.
This year's production is familiar because students read the novel by S.E. Hinton of the same name in their 7th grade ELA classes. Now, they get to interpret the work in a new way by bringing it to life on the stage.
Shows will run Oct. 25, 26 and 28 at 7 p.m., and a final matinee show will take place on Sunday, Oct. 29 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors, students and children. Tickets will be sold at the door and online at http://southparkdramaclub.ticketleap.com/outsiders.
The show will be directed by South Park High School teacher Mr. Joshua Baker. There will even be a special presentation for the South Park Middle School 7th grade students, who are currently reading the novel, prior to opening night.
The students involved are excited to portray characters that are near and dear to them.
"I have been a massive fan of The Outsiders ever since I was first introduced to it," said Owen Stillwell, who will play the role of Ponyboy. "I remember reading the book in 7th grade, watching the movie, and then meeting C. Thomas Howell (Ponyboy himself) at Steel City Comic Con the next day. I soon discovered the Francis Ford Coppola director's cut of the star studded film, and have been watching it almost religiously ever since."
Added Olivia Sperber, who will play the role of Cherry Valance: "I loved the novel throughout middle school and even to this day. I believe that the novel (and the show) provides amazing life lessons and is such a great story in all."
There will be some challenges as well in adapting to the characters and telling their story.
"Having to change the way you speak is really hard," said Alex Marshall, who will play Darry Curtis. "Accents are a crucial part of telling a story with a different setting. In this case, we have to talk in a southern accent because The Outsiders takes place in Oklahoma."
South Park High School Drama Club members are excited for the opportunity to put their talents on display as the iconic, rough-hewn cast of characters that make The Outsiders a beloved work.
“It's gonna be great,” Owen Stillwell said. “Our cast is stacked with some of the most talented people I've ever met and I'm honored to be working with them.”
It should be noted that The Outsiders touches on serious themes that heighten the drama.
"This show will pull on your heartstrings, so bring your tissues," said Olivia Sperber.