A Fresh Start: Marilyn Strange is ready to take theater to the next level
Theater experienced its fair share of instructors in the past four school years, with control of the program jumping from teacher to teacher. Now, entering stage right, is Marilyn Strange, the newest drama teacher.
Previously stuck in the mud due to financial issues, the theater program prepared for this year by planning several fundraisers, including the Zombie Run in October and the 18 Hour Theater Festival in Spring.
“The drama club is really excited for the Zombie Run and I think the students will be too. High schoolers are at that age where its no longer cool to trick-or-treat and it’s just lame to stay at home and pass out candy, so this event is kind of the happy medium. I believe that it will draw in a big crowd,” Strange said.
Regardless of coming in during the middle of last year’s spring play, Strange’s transition to what she calls “Nice People High School” has been very smooth. Her first project here is Man of La Mancha.
A cast of thirty-three students are putting on the 5 Tony Award winning play, which is about an actor in prison putting on a play in order to save a mysterious manuscript to life.
“The Man of La Mancha is an older play that hasn’t really been done in the Conejo Valley area, so the students of Newbury Park are in for a surprise,” Strange said, “The big cast brings lots of different talents to the stage which is going to make it a really fun experience. So far, rehearsals and planning also have been going well and we’re pretty on track.”
Strange is not only planning for the upcoming fall play, but also for a baby.
“He is coming in between the fall and spring plays, so it’s not going to be in the middle of anything. Actually, it is very nice planning. I’m very excited,” Strange said.She has big plans and high hopes for the drama program this school year.
“Everyone has been so kind and supportive,” Strange said. “I really want the best for the students and for them to walk out of high school knowing that it is okay to be themselves and be comfortable in their own skin.”
Man of La Mancha will be playing November 7, 8, 13, 14, and 15 in the PAC at 8 p.m. Ticket prices are $8 for students and children 12 and under and $10 for general admission.
