Douglas drama department performs Shakespeare's comedy 'Twelfth Night'

Set in the mythical city of Illyria, Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night" tells the story of a young woman who survives a shipwreck, loses her brother and disguises herself as a eunuch. What better setup for what is described as the bard's funniest comedy?

The Douglas High School drama program performs "Twelfth Night," 7:30 tonight and Saturday in the school's drama room.

Drama student Jake Reid, who is Sir Andrew Aguecheek in the play, gives a synopsis of "Twelfth Night."

"Plot A involves Viola and her twin brother Sebastian who are separated at sea," said Reid. "Viola is disguised as a eunuch who must court Lady Olivia for Duke Orsino who is trying to court Viola."

Got it?

"It's a real challenge to take on Shakespeare, especially putting it in Greek times," Reid said.

Douglas drama teacher James Scoggins said performing Shakespeare's plays is a more versatile way to look at language.

"Shakespeare gives us a higher level of learning - not what we're used to," said Scoggins. "In English class the students read tragedies so they need classics with humor, like 'Twelfth Night,' to learn."

He said as an English and drama teacher, he may have the same students throughout their years in high school.

"It's fun working with students when I get them for three years. I get to see them grow as students and as humans," Scoggins said.

Rachel Kiehne, 16, who plays the ship captain and an officer who arrests the character Antonia, said she enjoys performing.

"But before a performance, we get butterflies in our stomachs and we get nervous," Kiehne said. "When you forget your lines up there, you become an empty shell.

"I enjoy Shakespeare and watch plays as often as I can."

Performances are 7:30 tonight and Saturday at Douglas High School. Because of sophisticated language, the play is not recommended for children younger than 10.

Tickets are $8 for adults and $4 for students/seniors with a 50 percent discount on ticket prices with a donation of nonperishable food items.

Information, 782-5136.

-- Sharlene Irete is People

Editor of The R-C

and may be reached at

sirete@recordcourier.com

or 782-5121, ext. 210.