Arlington’s high school actors are exploring timeless values and eccentricity in their spring comedy production of “You Can’t Take it With You,” a 1930s play by Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman.
The classic comedy takes a light-hearted look at one whacky family and the daughter’s efforts to reconcile her identity. The message still applies more than 60 years later.
Set in 1936, Alice Sycamore has invited her charming and handsome boyfriend, Tony Kirby, home to meet her folks. The problem is, her family is a bit eccentric. Alice’s father makes fireworks in the basement, her mother is a playwright/amateur artist and confectionaire, and her sister and brother-in-law print communist propaganda, study ballet and entertain actors, as well as Russian royalty.
Tony doesn’t mind, but for his parents it’s a different story.
The play ran for two years when it was first released, just as America was beginning to rebound from the Great Depression. Money was tight for most Americans, and many felt the desire to escape into a world of fun.
“Those conditions were not unlike what we are experiencing today,” said AHS drama teacher Scott Moberly. “This year, our drama club decided to help with the troubled times we are now seeing. The students realized that this play, done with outstanding attention to dramatic detail, would be a great gift to the community.”
The drama club is comprised of many talented singers and actors, but stagecraft students also contribute, Moberly noted.
“All the lighting, set production and scene changes are done by students, with assistance from a few dedicated adult volunteers and staff members,” Moberly said.
“We could not produce our plays without the stagecraft class.”
Sophomore Caroline Rensel said that the stagecraft class is a must for any student interested in theater.
“I’m not very good with a hammer and nails,” said Rensel, “but I’ve been able to paint sets, design props and practice lighting.”
And now her carpentry skills have improved, she said.
“You get a real sense of team work in this class.”
The crew and cast invite all the community to come for an evening of laughter and merriment with the Sycamores and Kirbys.
Tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and students, available at the BPAC Web site, byrnesperformingarts.org and at the door on a space available basis.
The show starts at 7:30 p.m. on April 24 and 25 and May 1 and 2 at the Linda M. Byrnes performing Arts Center at Arlington High School, 18821 Crown Ridge Blvd., Arlington.
