Wayzata High School students performing their fall play production of Tartuffe. Photo: Margie Scherschligt
Romeo and Juliet is on the docket for the winter season.
When the house lights dim and the curtain rises at Wayzata High School’s (WHS) Black Box stage on January 16, it will be a moment that has been months in the making.
WHS’ theater department has been hard at work since November preparing for its winter season. “We’re always looking for a show that has a large number of characters or the right kinds of roles that would really stretch and grow the current students that we have so that we’re always offering rich opportunities,” says theater director Justin Spooner.
This winter’s play is William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, which was picked by guest director Ben Gansky. Aside from being a self-professed Shakespeare nerd, “[Ben is] super passionate about the text,” Spooner says. “It’s also a text that is in the curriculum here at the school; the students are familiar with it. It’ll be a fun show to dig into.”
WHS thespians have been collaborating for the play’s three-day run, and that encompasses more than the student actors appearing on stage. “As much as possible, all the creation and production work for each show is done by our student team,” Spooner says. “Our scene shop and technical teams do amazing jobs.”
Opening night is at 7 p.m. January 16 with subsequent evening performances at 7 p.m. on January 17 and 18. There will also be a matinee at 1 p.m. on January 18. Tickets are available at the door and at whstheatre.com.
Wayzata High School Theatre
4955 Peony Lane N.; 763.745.6600
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