The crowd applauded as the performers gave one last bow. Cast members, hand-in-hand, smiled proudly at the production they had put on after weeks and weeks of rehearsals, stretching from sunup to sundown.

On Nov. 16 to 18, the Arcadia Stage Theatre Company put on a successful production of The Giver. Members of the Drama Department had been working on this production since the summer, perfecting every detail of the play, making sure to present their very best. For some, it was their first time performing in a full-on production; for others, this was a familiarity. However, each time these talented actors put on a play, they are overcome by a wide range of emotions and experiences. Let’s hear what some of the actors and actresses have to share their experiences performing in The Giver.

“From my experience, this show has been one of a kind, and I feel it’s a show unlike anything I’ll ever take part in. I went in with an open mind and was so, so happy with the amazing outcome the show has brought not only to me but to everyone who watched. Everything about this show was a blast and I couldn’t have asked for a better cast to work with.” —Joe Ganley, 11, The Giver

“After months of exhausting rehearsals, it was exciting to finally see The Giver in its and to witness firsthand its emotional impact on many of the audience members.” —Alex Zhao, 11, Featured Dancer, Soldier, Community Member

“The Giver was a wonderful experience for me, though I didn’t think I would enjoy it at first. The book itself seemed too intense for us to do since we usually lean towards comedy in the fall play. After [watching] the movie version of The Giver, I thought the play was going to be boring due to our lack of visual effects and the high budget a Hollywood production [costs]. In the end, I believe our show was impactful and significantly different from any play I’ve ever seen; there’s truly nothing like live theatre!” —Vanessa Vargas, 12, Elder, Featured Dancer

“The Giver was a unique production both on and off stage. Since it was an adaptation straight from the novel, a lot of time was spent making sure the script was coherent. Performing in such a visually stunning and emotionally gripping show that sends out such a powerful message while relating to events going on in our society today gave me memories that will last a lifetime.” —Grace Chu, 12, Elder

Congratulations to the drama department on its successful production this fall, and we wish the members the best of luck for the rest of their season. We cannot wait to see what they have in store for Disney’s Beauty and the Beast on Mar. 15 to 18!

Photo Courtesy of ESTELLE HOOPER