Break a leg: Theatre students perform with gusto

Artistically inclined students in the Holmes and Washington County School Districts can find an outlet for their creative spirit, within the communityÂ’s school-led theatres, whether their talents lie in singing, acting, dancing, skills in lighting or carpentry, or just a love of all things dramatic.

Bethlehem High School, Chipley High School, Holmes County High School, Ponce de Leon High School, Poplar Springs High School, and Roulhac Middle School each offer theater/drama and music departments in which the students can showcase their talents. 

Chelsea Herndon, Director of the Bethlehem Drama Department, says although COVID shut down their production of “Grease” last year, the students are coming back this year with a show titled, “We’ll Be Right Back After This Murder.” Performances will be presented at 7 p.m. nightly on November 12, 13 and 15. “It was a big letdown for our students over what might have been,” said Herndon. “But we have a great group of kids that come together as a family and do great things.” 

The shows will be held at the school, located at 2767 County Road 160 Bonifay. Tickets can be purchased at the door. 

Chipley High School’s Theatre Department is directed by Kevin Russell who says the goal is to bring culture to the community. 

“Our vision at CHS is to bring live theatre to the students and the community of Chipley High School and to provide a cultural experience for all.” 

CHS is gearing up for a production of ‘The Curious Savage” to be held at 7 p.m., November 9 and 11. As will all performances at CHS, they are held in the school auditorium, located at 1545 Brickyard Road in Chipley. Tickets can be purchased at the door for these performances as well.

Russell also heads up Roulhac Middle School Theatre Department and says they have a great show coming up in January. “We are excited for our production of the “The Little Mermaid, Jr.” in January,” said Russell. 

“This is our second season, and we hope to continue to bring great shows to our community.” Productions of  “The Little Mermaid, Jr.’ will be held January 20 through 22, 2022. 

Herndon added that theatre offers a different academic experience for students who havenÂ’t found their niche in other clubs.

“Theater is a place where students who don’t feel like they belong in other areas can come be a part and feel like they belong to something great,” she said.

For more information on these programs and how the community can support them, reach out to the programs at their respective schools.