Seniors Sam Thompson and Addie Downs perform as part of Clarke Central High School’s drama department production of John O’Brien’s “Mirrors”. Thompson and Downs both competed at the Georgia High School Association Region 8AAAAA One Act Play competition on Thu., Oct 16 at Heritage High School in Conyers, Ga. Photo by Chad Rhym.
By GRACE POLANECZKY – Staff Writer
The Clarke Central High School drama department illustrates compelling messages in their performances of “Mirrors” and “The Lottery.”
On Sat. Oct 18., the Clarke Central High School drama department will present their second and last performance of two one-act plays: John O’Brien’s “Mirrors” and Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery.”
CCHS’ delegation competed at the Georgia High School Association Region 8-AAAAA One Act Play competition on Thu., Oct. 16, where “Mirrors” placed third.
Although “Mirrors” and “The Lottery” are very different, the two short plays complement each other in their thematic elements.
“Mirrors” tells a story of the thin veil between reality and dreams, and challenges the idea of what it means to be sane. The set is simple, and a bench at center stage is the only major prop it takes for the six-person cast to carry the piece along beautifully.
Sophomore Isabelle Germain, juniors Martaz Imes and Anthony Zúñiga and seniors Chyna Brooks, Addie Downs and Sam Thompson put on an engaging and thought-provoking performance in a minimalist way, matching the tone of the play: simple, yet deeply complex.
The second play, “The Lottery” carries a similarly eerie feeling of uncertainty and tension, portraying the story of a town struck by fear and trapped in a disturbing tradition concerning life and death. Like “Mirrors,” it is characterized by suspense. The dialogue centers around this feeling, leaving the audience guessing their own end to the mystery through hints.
The cast’s performance is strong and emotional in both one acts as they emphasize all of the most compelling aspects of the story through their acting.
See “Mirrors” and “The Lottery” at CCHS’ Mell Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 18.
