(From left) Tyler Hicks, Katie Davis and Noah LeMaster rehearse a scene from Jonathan Alder High School’s upcoming production of “Arsenic and Old Lace.”
(Posted Nov. 11, 2015)
By Kristy Zurbrick, Madison Editor
For her debut as director of a high school play, Stephanie Tinberg chose a classic, “Arsenic and Old Lace,” a dark comedy about a family of lunatics with a penchant for murder.
“It’s clever and it’s funny, and the students really get a chance to get into their characters,” she said.
Tinberg served as a substitute English teacher at Jonathan Alder High School last year before taking on a full-time position this year. She studied theater, music and dance at the University of Wisconsin and has performed on stage for years, from high school to college to community theater. She also has performed internationally.
As she pulls together her first production from off the stage, Tinberg said she is happy with the ability and effort put forth by her student-actors.
“The kids are incredibly talented and will make you laugh,” she said.
Katie Davis, the only senior in the production, plays Abby, one of the crazy killer aunts. Besides being hilarious and on top of her material, Davis serves as a mentor to younger actors in the cast, Tinberg said.
Sydney Winslow’s role is that of Martha, the other crazy aunt in the storyline. The freshman surprised Tinberg during auditions, jumping right into character and performing at a high level.
Kenelm Kendig has embraced the over-the-top, chaotic nature of the play through his portrayal of Mortimer, the nephew at the center of the action. Meanwhile, Alyssa Masula, who plays Elaine, Mortimer’s love interest, is another leader on set with several stage productions under her belt. “She’s our resident pro,” Tinberg said.
About Nathan Uhrman who plays one of Mortimer’s brothers, Jonathan, Tinberg said, “He’s the nicest guy but has transformed into the most evil character and done it flawlessly.”
Noah LeMaster plays Dr. Einstein, Jonathan’s partner in crime. Tinberg describes LeMaster as a “ray of sunshine” and “our cheerleader of the production.” Tyler Hicks plays Mortimer’s other brother, Teddy, and as a first-time stage performer brings great energy to his role.
Rounding out the cast are Grayson Abend as Rev. Dr. Harper, Jordan Ballard as Officer Klein, Nehemiah Haines as Officer O’Hara, Gabrielle Pollom as Officer Brophy, Madison McMillen as Lieut. Rooney, Ryan Gutierrez as Mr. Gibbs and Andy Gingerich as Mr. Witherspoon.
Show times are 7:30 p.m. Nov. 20-21 and 1 p.m. Nov. 22. Tickets are available at the door and are $10 for adults, $7 for senior citizens and students, and $5 for children younger than 13 years old.
