On April 24 the Pleasant Valley Theater Department closed the spring show “Our Town,” written by Thornton Wilder and directed by Christina Myatt. For many seniors, this was their last performance with Troop 856 and on the Pleasant Valley Stage.
Throughout the last four years, many members of the class of 2021 have created memories on the Spartan Stage. The theater department has played an important role in many students’ lives. This program has presented many opportunities to them and students have spent hours crafting shows. For seniors, graduation means the end of an era with Troop 856.
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the theater department, which in turn has made opportunities like this more special for seniors. Many of them were afraid that their last few shows could be canceled, but even through changes and CDC guidelines, many feel as though the theatre department has persevered.
Myatt believes that “Our Town” allowed for a meaningful experience for seniors because of the message behind the show. “‘Our Town’ was a perfect last show for seniors. This show looked at the last moments that we may take for granted,” Myatt explained. “As students start a new journey in life, it is fantastic to reflect on the little things in life. It just seems fitting.”
“Our Town” is about a small town called Grover’s Corners. The show follows the daily lives of the Gibbs and Webb family through monumental life events such as marriage and death. This classic American play is narrated by a stage manager who guides the audience through the show.
For senior Logan Croll, this was his last show with the Pleasant Valley Theater Department. He played a significant role in the show, and he was impacted greatly by this experience as a whole. “Our Town was a great show to have as my last show because it reminds us to pay attention to life as we live and enjoy things before they are gone,” Croll said.
This performance was full of memories for Croll, and although he is saddened to say goodbye, he is grateful to be able to reminisce on the journey. “The show was incredibly fun to put together and perform. The cast and crew became very close through the entire process. It was a fantastic experience that I am very glad I could be a part of it,” he expressed.
The final goodbyes for seniors can be bittersweet as they move forward to the next steps in their future. Although leaving behind the spartan stage and the Pleasant Valley Theatre Department can be difficult for students such as Croll, the many connections and memories created throughout the years can be carried into the future.
