A Great Night for Rush Strong Orphans
The smell of popcorn wafted through the air as actors scurried around preparing for the Rush Strong School Drama Club’s production of “Annie.” Trevor Roberts, Drama coach and 7th grade math teacher checked lights and installed batteries in microphones while welcoming parents and making sure performers were in their places. Trevor Roberts took over as drama coach when Dennis Maxey retired after approximately 17 years of rehearsals and performances.
Roberts said that he has really enjoyed getting ready for this night and stated that he was very thankful for the assistance of Kristy Shelton, an 8th grade math teacher. He also wanted to extend a thank-you to all those that volunteered with sets, concessions, costumes and their time. The entire cast and crew have been preparing for this since August and rehearsals were held twice weekly until 5:00 o’clock in the afternoon. With hard work and dedication by all those involved, this production was a complete success and the young thespians performed beautifully.
When asked what was next, Roberts stated, “I don’t know what we’ll be performing but casting tryouts begin in April or May for 3rd through 8th graders.” He said that there will just be one performance a year in order to be prepared and has hopes that it will become a community event as well as continued attendance by family and friends. For those that were present, Paula Conner provided cotton candy. Popcorn and bottled water was also available at the first concessions at a production and was also success and sold out early.
Cast Photo: Front Left to Back / Brenna Fields, Jasmin Mize, Hanna Adams, Kayleigh Roberts, Zac Conner, Reagan Berry, Sydney Bennett, Trevor Roberts, Courtney Evans, Jenna Roberts, Hunter Owens, Laura Heath, Lilliana Roberts, Olivia Shelton, Caleb Collins, Jessica Odom, Georgia Messer, Merissa Ridenour, Emilee Cook, Casper Cochran, Cody Heath, Marissa Brown, Erin Fehl, LeAndra Yardley, Erica Creech, and Andrew Craig. – Photo by Marihelen Ballard
