A doctor scared of blood, a chronically bored apprentice, and a mysterious plague will take center stage in the first show of the season – varsity theater’s “Anatomy of Gray.” Written by Jim Leonard, the medical drama set in late 19th century small town Indiana, has captivated the cast and crew.
“I think the show has great comedic timing,” lead actress senior Sarah Orth said. “But it also tells a heartfelt story about a town that’s very close facing things together.”
Orth, second year varsity student, is playing the deuteragonist June. A young girl who apprentices under an enigmatic doctor. This is Orth’s first lead role for Kingwood Park theater.
“I’ve never really had a big role before, this is kind of like my first lead and I really like this show,” Orth said. “I am very excited to put my talents on stage and hopefully do the role some justice.”
Junior Ada Stokes also finds himself in uncharted territory when it comes to leading roles.
“I’m kinda nervous because you know it’s just different being a lead, scared that I’ll mess it up for my peers of course,” stated Stokes, “but I’m also confident in my abilities to put on a good show.”
Stokes played the supporting role of Henry in last year’s varsity production of “Drowning Girls,” but attempts to shake things up with the titular eccentric doctor of the story Galen P. Gray.
“I think he’s very funny/awkward which suits me pretty well, very relatable.” Stokes said. “It reminds me a lot of the Wizard of Oz. His (Galen Gray) balloon, how he arrives like this magic healer. I like the show and it is very fun to be a part of.”
Leading up to the theater season, the number one anxiety for students is what the department is going to be performing. The show selection for the year can be a significant factor in not only audience attendance but also student participation, especially considering this year the show will be held in the PAC instead of the smaller Black Box. That means it is paramount to choose a production people can connect with. It is the job of four-year director Brandi Perkins to make these judgments on behalf of the company.
“I have seen this show before, and I really enjoyed it, and I’ve seen it done a lot for UIL one-act plays and I wanted to do it in full length with our crew,” Perkins said.
“Anatomy of Gray” will run from Sept. 11-13 in the Performing Arts Center. Tickets are available at the door or online.
“The author describes this story as a grown-up fairy tale,” stated Perkins, “So there’s some fantasy, there’s some fun, but it’s got an underlying moral and a lot of heart. So come out.”
