Imagine getting to miss school on the last week before winter break, while also doing something you love and bringing joy to so many others.
Every year, members of the WSHS Theatre Troupe travel to elementary schools to perform a show for kids. The show is always student-directed and serves as a fun way to introduce kids to theatre.
This year marks the 11th year of the traveling show, and they are performing “The Jungle Book.” The rehearsals began in November, and the students travel to elementary schools December 17, 18, and 20.
Senior Daria Lesmerises is directing the traveling show this year. She has participated the past three years and is passionate about leading her peers through this show.
“I’ve had SUCH a fun time directing everyone this year!” Lesmerises said. “My cast is big but perfect. We’re always giggling at rehearsal, and I know the kids will love it.”
Evan Bettac is a junior at Westerville South, and Lesmerises chose him to be her assistant director, as well as tech director. This means Bettac is in charge of all of the technical aspects of the show, from painting the set to writing notes and taking over rehearsals when Lesmerises needs him to.
“I am hoping to direct the traveling show next year, so I want to get as much experience as possible with the process,” Bettac said. “The set is very simple, because it has to be easily moved from school to school. It’s mostly painted blocks and trees made out of tripods and vines.”
There is also a traveling crew of four people that tag along to help transport the pieces of the show. “A super fun part of the show is that we get to carpool. Everyone in the show is split into four cars and rides together to each school,” junior Wrigley Beardmore said.
Saturday, Dec. 14 was “Drama Camp” where members of the traveling show created stations with crafts, games, and costumes for young children to enjoy.
It was an all day event that raised money for the troupe and ended with a performance of “The Jungle Book,” where the kids were able to participate as well. They were added in as various animals, and their parents were able to watch them on stage, which is always exciting.
The Westerville South traveling show helps introduce elementary school students to theatre and gives them opportunities to interact with high schoolers.
