Latest news with #MerivaleHighSchool
Ottawa Citizen
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Ottawa Citizen
St. Mother Teresa presented a 'brilliantly executed' production of The Play That Goes Wrong
Article content Alexander James, who plays the flippant but endearing Cecil Haversham, conveyed a dynamic and enthusiastic performance. James's passionate delivery of an over-the-top attention-seeking actor enhanced the delightfully chaotic performance. Cecil's exaggerated, childlike expressions were consistently maintained throughout the performance, and the role's physically demanding slapstick movements and comedic actions were executed with remarkable ease, seamlessly adding to the character's charm and humour. Alongside Cecil, Charlie Nowak Bella delivered an incredible performance as Florence Colleymoore, the melodramatic and demanding widow of Charles Haversham (Vinny McMillan), the unfortunate murder victim of Haversham Manor. Nowak Bella embodied Florence's poise and elegance by capturing her exaggerated posh accent and aristocratic flair. Each ensemble member personified their character's quirks, from Chris's edgy demeanor to Annie's quiet yet unexpectedly competitive nature; the acting showcased remarkable talent. Article content Article content Article content The Cornley Drama Society Stage Crew wholeheartedly embraced the chaos within the play through their steadfast commitment to the humour and spontaneity of the mishaps, which contributed to the layers of comedy and elevated the absurdity of the performance. Article content Every action was impeccably performed, spotlighting the blunders that added fuel to the chaos and frenzy of the play. As the performance continued, a marvellous but accident-prone set, designed by The Nearly Nailed It set team, went down in shambles as the cast performed. The paintings, props, and decor were meticulously designed to collapse at the precise moment, enhancing the show's impeccable comedic timing. The manor also perfectly reflected the sophistication of the 1920s, with intricately crafted features of the crest above the main door entrance and antique wallpaper on the walls. The revolving bookcase was discreetly hidden, and the portable grandfather clock was impressively robust, especially as it held the unconscious Florence Colleymoore. Article content Article content St. Mother Teresa High School delivered a riotously entertaining production of The Play That Goes Wrong (High School Edition), proving that humour can indeed thrive in the realm of absurdity! Article content The St. Mother Teresa High School production was reviewed by 33 critics representing 8 schools. The critic discussions were mentored by teacher Natalie Simard of Merivale High School and student reviews were edited and selected for publication by teacher Rebeca Ricardo of St. Francis Xavier High School, who could see only the reviews, not the names or schools of the reviewers. Article content The Citizen and 23 high schools are participating in the Cappies, a Washington, program that uses high school critics to review high school theatre. The program is a unique partnership between the Ottawa Citizen, the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board and the Ottawa Catholic School Board. Two schools from other boards in the region and two private schools have also joined. The Cappies season culminates with an awards Gala in June graciously hosted by the National Arts Centre. Follow Canada's Capital Cappies on Instagram @OttawaCappies. Article content
Ottawa Citizen
10-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Ottawa Citizen
A.Y. Jackson's presented an 'enchanting' production of Bound by Pomegranate: A Persephone Retelling
Article content Show #15 Article content Mary Fraser, Lead Critic Merivale High School Article content A.Y. Jackson Secondary School transported the audience to the Underworld with their production of Bound By Pomegranate: A Persephone Retelling. With Greek mythology, modern comedy, and an emotional journey of self-discovery, the play gave the audience a chance to laugh while reflecting on valuable life lessons. Article content Article content Written and directed by Hajer Zorgani and accompanied by five pieces of music composed by Ava Charbonneau, both students, Bound by Pomegranate: A Persephone Retelling reimagines classic Greek mythology through a modern lens of transformation and introspection. Sent to the Underworld, Persephone enters a realm that unexpectedly awakens a sense of purpose within her. There, Hades, the strong king, is torn between his responsibilities and a growing connection with his new guest. Hades allows Persephone to explore the Underworld freely, but when she eats from a pomegranate, the fateful fruit of the kingdom, she unknowingly seals her place there forever. As their worlds begin to unravel, Persephone and Hades learn to embrace the power of their voices in the unlikeliest of places. Article content Zorgani demonstrated professionalism that elevated the performance, writing a hilarious script that showed character development and combined a writing style reminiscent of ancient Greece. The audience heard 'Oh my Aphrodite!' along with modern teenage jargon such as Perseus being on trial for 'slaying too hard'. As a director, Zorgani kept the pacing tight and the story flowing, the creative vision bringing each scene to life. Article content Article content Hades, played by Marten Skubnik, delivered an incredible performance. Skubnik exhibited power as the strong-willed King of The Underworld, with seamless emotional transitions, from anger toward his siblings to vulnerability with Persephone. Ava Britten gave a remarkable performance as Persephone, embodying the goddess's innocence and compassion with depth and authenticity. Britten skillfully conveyed Persephone's inner turmoil, shaped by her mother Demeter's isolation and being 'a slave to her happiness,' while showcasing the character's evolution from a soft-spoken girl to a determined goddess. Article content
Ottawa Citizen
26-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Ottawa Citizen
Cappies: West Carleton presents a wonderful adaptation of The Odyssey
Article content Article content More who brought wonderful energy to the stage was Circe, acted by Sydney Fulcher. Through comedic timing and dead-pan expressions, whenever Fulcher was on stage, it was surely a sight to see. Whether it was Circe's dancing, casting spells, getting interviewed, or teaching Odysseus a lesson he'll never forget; Fulcher was effortless with tone control and delivery, flawlessly changing between carefree, nervous, and deadly serious. As well, Newt Davidson who played the Cyclops used strong facial expressions, and a powerful delivery for each line to showcase the Cyclops' power and control. Evil laughter and an interesting fascination with walls, conveyed a true embodiment of a character, effectively delivered by Davidson. Article content Article content Furthermore, Harrum Butt, as 'the stage manager,' was delightfully humourous, and executed each line with immaculate comedic timing. Butt portrayed the stereotypically nervous and timid backstage manager through jocular facial expressions and line delivery. Soldier Colson, played by Colson Puchala, was delightfully dynamic with full body acting, putting everything into each word and phrase. Article content All in all, West Carleton Secondary School's production of The Odyssey was truly a sight to see, and especially a good laugh. With strong actors, and flawless stage management, it was unquestionably a play to remember. Article content The West Carleton Secondary School production was reviewed by 24 critics representing 6 schools. The critic discussions were mentored by teacher Erin Hand of St. Mark High School and student reviews were edited and selected for publication by teacher Adrian Darling of Merivale High School, who could see only the reviews, not the names or schools of the reviewers. Article content Article content The Citizen and 23 high schools are participating in the Cappies, a Washington, program that uses high school critics to review high school theatre. The program is a unique partnership between the Ottawa Citizen, the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board and the Ottawa Catholic School Board. Two schools from other boards in the region and two private schools have also joined. The Cappies season culminates with an awards Gala in June graciously hosted by the National Arts Centre. Follow Canada's Capital Cappies on Instagram @OttawaCappies. Article content
