SHS presents Les Misérables

Sabrina Kooistra
Times Junior Contributor

 

Since early February, the Strathmore High School’s (SHS) Drama 25/35 and Dance 25/35 programs have been working tirelessly to bring an entertaining and captivating performance to the stage in the upcoming performance of Les Misérables. Director Deanne Bertsch, one of the drama teachers at SHS, says that it is remarkable what the students have been able to accomplish, with the challenge of having both seasoned and new singers featured in the performance along with other very demanding features. SHS’s take on this story has posed a challenge but is broadening the scope of its students. With the inclusion of difficult choreography, a large amount of memorization, and lots of vocal work in a short amount of rehearsal time, students are excited to showcase their potential and hard work.
Tanya Shpyth, a Grade 11 drama student, has tackled the major role of Cosette, a “star-crossed lover who falls in love with a revolutionary” in her words. “Cosette has a beautiful voice in the movie so I’m going to try and bring that into my character … it’s a very interesting story, and a lot of fun to take on as an actor.”
It is a group undertaking, though, with approximately 60 students working sound, lights, and advertising to being actors, vocalists, and dancers, while teachers have assisted with set construction along with directing and producing.
“I enjoy the story of Les Misérables because it is relatable. It may not seem like it [because] the French Revolution isn’t really relatable, but the characters are just everyday people.” Shpyth said.
This rendition of Les Misérables has been dedicated to retiring SHS principal Gary Reagan, who Bertsch claims reminds her of one of the story’s characters, Jean Valjean, a man of kindness and granting second chances when others are not as willing.
Les Misérables will be showcased from May 15th-18th at 7:00 p.m. and on the 16th and 17th at 11:00 a.m. in the SHS theatre.