As we finish up the first quarter of the new school year, Mr. Greene has begun practice for the fall play, “The Nerd.” Starting off strong, the auditions were held on the September 4, with the cast list coming out only two days later. The cast consists of students from all grades, having many talented young actors involved. Rehearsal has officially started in Mr. Greene’s room in the B wing.
“The Nerd,” originally written by Larry Shue, is a humorous play involving three friends: Willum Cubert (James Goodman), Tansy McGinnis (Nadia Nasky), and Axel Hammond (Joe Sharaba). When Willum gets an unexpected call from Rick Steadman (Owen Medved), a man who saved his life in Vietnam, his life flips upside down. Rick moves in with Willum, causing chaos amongst everyone, including Willum’s client for work, Mr. Waldgrave (Vinny Gamiere), his wife, Clelia Waldgrave (Kara Cogan), and his daughter, Thora (Frankie Hakli).
The hilarious show has a perfectly fitting cast, who works hard but perfectly balances it with hilarious jokes and friendly banter. It is apparent that they have warmed up to one another already. Mr. Greene is tweaking everything as they move along, making sure the show is at the best capabilities possible.
Vinny Gamiere, the Vice President of theatre who is also in the cast, shares some background information. He shares that this is his first fall play, but he has been participating in the spring musicals for three years. He also includes that his title, Vice President of the Mentor High School theatre program, was chosen by filling out an application form, which was then chosen amongst other applicants.
When asked about how the plays get chosen every year, he said, “Mr. Greene picks the plays based off of what the year’s theme is and what Mr. Crowe approves.”
According to Vinny, the auditions were relatively easy.
“We had to memorize a small monologue and deliver it in front of a small group of people,” he said. Finally, he expressed his excitement by saying that “The Nerd” is his favorite show in which he has participated so far.
Tickets are currently on sale, $7 for students and $10 for adults, with opening night being on November 1st. To buy tickets now, click this link: https://mentortheatre.ludus.com/index.php?step=seats
