Minooka Junior High Gearing Up for Spring Play

Submitted by the Minooka Junior High School Drama Club

Amid the sounds of track students running warmups in the halls and teachers conversing as they walk out the door for the day, the Minooka Junior High School Drama Club does not waver in their focus. They are preparing for this year’s performance of “A Midsummer Night’s Prom Dream.”

Not only is their dedication to the program shown in the actors’ performances, but in the beautiful set. More than a dozen students gave up 12 hours over two weekends to paint the background. Priming, sketching, taping, and painting set to the tune of laughter and teamwork. Eighth grader Hannah Smith, Frances Flute, says “We painted; we washed brushes. (It) was fun. I’m really proud of it. We got a lot done in two Saturdays.”

Students may be split into roles of cast members and crew members, but they come to practice every day to make each other better.

“It’s really about the bond between me and my castmates,” said eighth grader Alyssa Hebrink.

Even within the drama club, there are students from all different interests looking to maybe “(have) a new experience other than sports,” according to publicity crew member Gianna Pullara.

Just as the Minooka community is expanding, so is the Drama Club program. Each year new goals are set to grow the program even further. Since the first rehearsal, this year’s goal has been to sell out the only performance on March 23. This has pushed the students to work even harder in rehearsals.

“This year I am in eighth grade, so it seems more like you get to show the 7th graders how to act next year when they are eighth graders,” reflects Madison Kohlmeyer, Petra Quince. “(You) get to be the leader, and show them that what you are doing is important. It’s not just something you just meet after school for. It’s a big production, and you need to be responsible.”

So come out to Minooka High School - Central Campus to support the Minooka Junior High School Drama Club on Wednesday, March 23. There will be one performance at 6 p.m. Tickets are $4 during the in-school pre-sale or $6 at the door. Let's make their goal a reality and sell out the house!