As the performing arts continues to receive a spotlight in the community, a group of city high school students is gearing up to showcase their talent to the public. 

The Elizabethton High School Drama Department is scheduled to host showing of Barefoot in the Park by Neil Simon this weekend – April 28 and 29 – at East River Park Christian Church in Elizabethton. Individuals are invited to attend with tickets set at $5. 

It’s been a fun ride in the drama department according to EHS senior Makailah Shell. The four-year member of the school’s advanced drama added the stars aligned perfectly to put on the show. 

“A large senior group just graduated, so a smaller cast play seemed to be the best solution,” Shell said. “As it turns out, the department grew, and we had plenty of people, but Mrs. (Megan) Foster had already decided on Barefoot in the Park.  It worked out because it gave the department a chance to produce Bedtime Stories earlier in the month.

Shell added attendees should expect an evening of fun and laughter. 

“They can expect to laugh and to enjoy some poignant moments of reflection about love and commitment,” she said. “Barefoot in the Park is a great reminder that love really does conquer all, told in a quirky and funny way.  Everyone in the cast and crew is so invested and in love with this story.  It is such a pleasure to tell this story.

It’ll be a busy production for all performers involved, the senior added. 

“While all 27 members of the production class are involved in one capacity or another, six characters will be on stage, three will be working lights and sound, and several have been stage managers, costume designers, and prop designers,” she explained. 

The EHS Drama Department also had a first of sorts recently by taking part in a couple of productions at the Bonnie Kate Theater. Being on the front lines of the emerging arts’ scene is something the students aren’t taking too lightly. 

“We are so excited to have a theater space and a vibrant program that is up and coming with the Bonnie Kate,” she said. “We are so pleased to be part of the momentum that is the Arts in Elizabethton.

EHS Drama is scheduled to have a production of The Great Gatsby at the Bonnie Kate in November. While it is still in the works, the senior added it would be a big production. 

“As EHS Drama begins to compete in the Tennessee Speech and Drama League next year, there is also the possibility of some original productions as well,” Shell added. “There is a lot on the horizon