Dist. 91 students present ‘Kiss Me Kate’
Idaho Falls School District 91 presents “Kiss Me Kate.” The unique production showcases students from several high schools within the district.
The play is a modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Taming the Shrew,” featuring male lead Silas Wright (Fed Graham/Petruchio) and Sydney Burtenshaw (Lilli Vanessi/Katharine). Both say this is their first time as leads. But more importantly it’s their first collaboration with students from other schools.
“It’s been very enjoyable. I’ve been able to make friends with people that I wouldn’t have made under any other circumstances because we don’t go to the same school,” said Burtenshaw.
“When we get here and we’re all together with the cast, we have a lot of fun, we goof off, we mess around and altogether we’ve been able to make it. It’s a great experience for all of us to work together and be apart of it,” said Wright.
The school is encouraging everyone in the community to support the performance. The district cut millions of dollars in its funding, which include funds designated for the district’s annual production. The district’s musical coordinator, Sharon McGuire, said she believes the productions can continue without the funds thanks to donations, parents’ support and ticket sales, but it’s important that the students’ hard work is recognized as well.
“Our hope is that we will make enough at the door to have enough funds left over that can help pay start-up costs for next year’s district musical,” she said.
Opening night is Friday, April 4 at 7:00, and shows will continue at the same time on April 5 and 7. Tickets are on sale for $4 for children and $6 for adults.
