What's Happened?
For the past month, Valparaiso High School (VHS) drama club students have been working hard on the production of "Ranked, A Musical," written by Kyle Holmes. Ranked is about a utopian society that values how grades affect class placement.
The musical had three live performances on November 19, 20, and 21.
Practices consisted of going over lines, costumes changes, putting together props, and working together as a team.
“We’ve been practicing since probably September/October to put on this play,” Senior Xavier Rochon stated.
“I noticed throughout the practices that everyone was able to identify with the storyline of the play which really brought us together because it was something we could all relate to,” Rochon said.
“I enjoyed how loving and caring everyone was," said VHS student Cameron Basile. "There was a lot of humor in the group which made the practices a lot less stressful.”
Basile played John Carter, one of the main characters in the musical. This was Basile’s first year performing in a VHS musical, and he cannot wait to be on the stage again.
“This show really affected me positively because I met a lot of new people that I became close with. I can’t wait till the next production," Basile said.
Freshman Raegan Smedley played Lily Larsen, another main character. Like Basile, this was also her first year being a part of the VHS drama club.
“I really loved working with everyone and watching the musical come together," Smedley said. "I honestly got the reaction I was hoping for from the audience. The crowd seemed like they really enjoyed the show, and I am thankful for that because it was a lot of work.”
The show covered many typical high school issues that the audience could relate to.
“I think this show is directed towards teens who feel unheard by adults," said senior Jovanina Wilson, a four-year member of the VHS drama club. "This musical is meant to bring light to mental health and stress. Mental health and stress are very pressing matters that a lot of people struggle with. This show lets students have their voices heard about issues like this.”
What’s Coming Up
VHS winter sports are starting back up this season. Don’t miss out on the girls' and boys' basketball games or the girls' and boys' swimming meet. Soon wrestling matches will begin, and the VHS gymnastics team will be back in action.
As the second semester winds to a close and Christmas nears, finals are right around the corner. Be sure to check your school email for the now-available finals schedule and don’t forget to study. Christmas break starts on December 17.
Last but not least, you will definitely be hearing from the VHS drama club again this year.
“The people are amazing, and I really love performing," said "Ranked, A Musical" actor junior Avery Thompson. "I will definitely be continuing my participation in the program, so watch out! You don’t want to miss our next production.”
Teacher Spotlight
December’s teacher spotlight is drama director and English teacher Colleen Peluso. Peluso has been teaching at VHS for five years. She teaches Contemporary Literature, AP Language and Composition, and Digital Media. Peluso attended Drake University in Iowa for her undergrad and received her master's degree from Valparaiso University. Even though she teaches English, she states that her real passion is theatre.
“I've been doing theater my whole life," she said. "My undergrad is in theater directing. I worked in voice-over acting and casting in Chicago. Theatre came before teaching. I decided to become a teacher when I wanted a career change where I could work with young people, and it was more conducive when having a family, so I went and got my master's at Valparaiso University to teach.”
Peluso’s favorite part about being on the VHS staff is working with her drama club students.
“My favorite part is definitely the students. I routinely work with adults who work and support our theater program. They always say how awesome our kids are," Peluso said. "My drama students are responsible, and they can carry themselves as young professionals which makes my job a lot easier. We do two big shows a year. It is equivalent to coaching two sports, so it helps to have amazing students like mine.”
Peluso spoke about how she plans to continue to work at VHS for many years to come.
“I do not have any immediate plans to make any life changes. I would be lying if I said there weren't moments when I question my sanity amidst the high stress levels and anxiety that some students give me, but overall, I am very passionate about the students I work with, and you will definitely see me next year.”
Student Spotlight
December’s student spotlight is junior Katherine Stalmah. Stalmah is a hard-working student who spends her time stage directing for the VHS drama club. She is also part of the Speech and Debate team, has attended the natural helper's retreat, is part of the Mayor's Youth Council, and works at Cinemark At Valparaiso whenever she finds time.
“A friend of mine recommended the drama club to me, so I joined," Stalmah said. "Being a part of the drama club has definitely improved my communication skills with others. Stage directing may be a lot of work at times, but I honestly love it.”
While stage directing, Stalmah makes sure everyone and everything is where it needs to be when it needs to be there.
Stalmah recommends the club to any new student wanting to join.
“It's always going to be scary getting into something new but if you take the first step, every step that follows is less scary," she said. "In everything we do as a club, there is no way you wouldn’t feel included. We have something for everyone, and it really brings us together as a club. I would definitely recommend joining our drama family.”