'The Dining Room' Comes to Life at John Jay High School

From the Katonah-Lewisboro school district

When A.R. Gurney’s “The Dining Room” opens at John Jay High School Nov. 20, audiences will be treated to a non-traditional play.

“It’s 18 scenes that are all unconnected—except they are all set in a dining room,” said Director William Friedman. “While it is daunting logistically, the quality of theatricality is something I really like.”

With no set changes, and dozens of characters, every actor has about the same size role.

“It’s a real ensemble,” said Friedman.

Students were intrigued by ‘The Dining Room’ from the start and learned quickly that it’s challenging to transition from one character to the next, from learning lines to portraying mannerisms, as the scenes progress.

“It’s really dynamic and interesting,” said senior Isabel, who plays the roles of Sally, Peggy, Kate and Ruth in the production.

Added Samuel Blum, “I like that everyone gets a chance to play a lot of different parts. It’s challenging to see how I can relate to each one.”

His characters are Charlie, Architect, Stuart, Jim and a Party Guest across five different dining room scenes.

“The audience may be a little confused at first, but they may want to come see it again,” said the senior.

For Friedman, watching the actors adapt to the format has been inspiring.

“The actors are really smart,” he said. “The audience will never get bored.”

“The Dining Room” – Thursday, Nov. 20 at 7 p.m.; Friday, Nov. 21 at 7 p.m. andSaturday, Nov. 22 at 1 and 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 to all shows.

PHOTO: John Jay High School sophomore Barrett Middleton and senior Isabel Maher in “The Dining Room” by A.R. Gurney/Courtesy Katonah-Lewisboro School District