Around the World in 80 Days was presented by LHS theater in early October, however the play had been in the works for long before that. Since before the school year began, these crew heads have been working rigorously to run the show behind the scenes.
You know the actors, now meet the crew.
Stage Manager/Construction Crew Head: Sophomore Lauren O’Connor
Since 7th grade, O’Connor has worked on plays and musicals with the crew, specifically construction. At LHS for her 8th grade year and beyond, she has continued to work on crew. As stage manager, O’Connor’s is to be sure that everything runs smoothly, including going to every rehearsal and calling cues for sounds and lights. As construction crew head, O’Connor directed the construction of stage props.
“Over the summer I had a technical theatership at the Aurora Fox and they were also putting on Around the World in 80 Days. So, I got to help work with their Technical Director and come up with my own set design,” said O’Connor.
Director’s Assistant: Junior Anna Moreno
Moreno works, mainly, with actors and helps them improve their performances to the best they can be. When other members of the crew needed assistance Moreno was readily available to give them what they needed. After some time in both Sound and Props Crews, Moreno applied for the position of assistant director to try something new.
“It’s been really fun getting to know how everyone has improved over time and being able to meet actors,” said Moreno.
Head of Props: Senior Char Fraietta
Fraietta has been involved in theater, specifically costumes since middle school. After transferring to LHS, they found a community in the LHS crew. Despite the difficulties, they have enjoyed their role and their contributions to the production.
“Being in backstage has given me my community here,” said Fraietta.
Head of Costumes: Senior Katje Anthamatten
Wanting to do more in the school community, Anthamatten joined the costume crew of her sophomore year play. That year, she fell in love with the theater and continued throughout her high school career. Anthamatten is now an inducted thespian and the costume crew head for Around the World in 80 Days.
“It’s like you’re a part of something bigger. It’s really cool and gratifying to be able to see your work be put in this massive production because all the pieces just fit together,” said Antahmattan.
Head of Makeup/Hair: Junior Alex Herrera
To prepare for the production, Herrera researched and designed the hair and makeup of the characters to fit the time and places of the play but still keep it easy to maintain. Beginning in middle school, Herrera participated in the hair and makeup for theater.
“I’ve learned a bunch of different skills that have helped me, from sewing to working with people,” said Herrera.
Head of Sound: Junior Sierra Yongue
Sierra runs all microphones and sound effects. She unsuccessfully auditioned 9th for musical, and said she might as well join crew.
As head of sound, Yongue runs all the microphones and sound equipment, specifically for effects.
“I like designing it. I like seeing the finished product and seeing people laugh at the sound effects and the actors and stuff like that,” said Yongue.
Head of House: Junior Kieran Kelly-Marx
In charge of everything from putting up posters and setting up the display case from before the show to ushering, passing out programs, and holding doors before the show, house crew has their work cut out for them. This last play was Kelly-Marx’s third show working house crew.
“[Theater has] helped me in being more expressive and kinda outgoing. I am really good with public speaking,” said Kelly-Marx.
Head of Lights: Senior Joey Danielson
As head of lights, Danielson designed the lights and set them up. For the last 3 years, starting during his freshman year for Into the Woods, Danielson has been made sure to join lights crew. After the last crew heads graduated and moved away from theater, he gladly took up the mantle.
“I’ve learned a lot more about both lights and electrical systems, for going into the electrical field after high school,” said Danielson.
