HOOD CANAL

by Rosemary Kallal

Walking into the lunchroom Tuesday after school, I’m greeted by a chorus of "Hippopotamus," kids in Christmas pajamas, a wedding dress, and plenty of Victorian garb. The energy is at top decibel as everyone prepares for this Friday’s modern production of A Christmas Carol.

Memories flood back to my own 4th-grade portrayal of the second ghost in the same play. Wearing my mom’s oversized green velour robe and a plastic crown, I tried to convince Scrooge to change his greedy ways. Now, I see the same mix of jitters about lines and stage movements blending with excitement and pride. These kids are becoming thespians before my eyes.

Paraeducator Anne Riener directs the play and shares that this is the first production they’ve done in many years. “This is all new to the 20 kids, and they’ve worked so hard,” she says. Tryouts were open to students of all abilities, and two cast members are flourishing despite speech difficulties.

I marvel at the concentration these students apply to learning their lines, understanding stage directions, and interacting with fellow actors. Quiet on and off stage, they’re becoming a cohesive team. What better preparation could there be for life, both in and out of school?!

The play is not without its logistical challenges. The lack of space for an art room means art classes are held on the stage. Before each rehearsal, everything has to be moved and then returned afterward. At Tuesday’s practice, the basketball team was in the gym on the other side of the curtain. Superintendent Gibbon shows me the makeshift lights and limited microphones cobbled together for the production. “While we’ve tried to find creative solutions,” he says, “if voters support the construction/remodeling levy in February, so many of these issues will be resolved.”

You know the story of Rudolph, but WHAT ABOUT BOB? Friday at 5, you’ll hear his story, watch the kids’ letters to Santa, and enjoy some festive holiday carols.

I can’t wait!