“The Outsiders” Become Insiders

The show must go on! Yes, it’s a theatre cliché, but these days, it couldn’t be more applicable.

The shutdown of school buildings across Farmingdale School District meant the cancellation of the high school’s much anticipated spring play, The Outsiders. That is, until theatre teacher Glen Beck found the inspiration to present it in a very different format. He directed his students to perform the play “virtually” inside their homes, using their computers as a camera.

“We didn’t have our set, costumes, or props, but we found a way to tell the story,” said Mr. Beck. “It has heart and maintains the major theme that family is not necessarily always blood, but a community. That, as a society, we must strive to connect and find our commonalities.”

After they “filmed" the first act, FHS teacher Jaime Capasso went to work editing the performances together. Due to time constraints, sections of act one have been released in separate installments on YouTube. The students are currently at work on the second act, and hope to finish it in the next few weeks.

Act 1 Part 1 - https://youtu.be/MnsLu_bJxdg
Act 1 Part 2 - https://youtu.be/cfyP41U06a8
Act 1 Part 3 - https://youtu.be/mbi65SGaNSg
Act 1 Part 4 - https://youtu.be/rfvJ-_gOY4U

“This is beyond amazing,” said Superintendent Paul Defendini. “Some clever cuts and formatting give this performance depth and dimension. Mr. Beck and the students clearly gave it their all and no one can ask more than that!”

For Mr. Beck, the experience was cathartic. “It was so great to connect with them and they all appreciated the chance to laugh and commune once again. However, I am a little sad for our crew, as they didn’t have the chance to work the lights or the soundboard. They too deserve praise for all the work they put in prior to the shutdown.”

“I hope this helps to reestablish some normality and gives these students the audience that they deserve,” said Mr. Beck. “I am super proud of them!”