Ever since the first time my skepticism over watching high school students do Shakespeare was replaced by amazement, I've continued to look forward to each and every drama performance put on by Mountain View High School's drama department.

This weekend was no exception. We caught two versions of "The Miser." I say two versions, because the lead role is double cast and the leads each bring their own style to the role. Friday night was Chris Embrey's full speed ahead, physical comedy version of the stingy old skinflint. If Chris doesn't make you laugh, I don't know what will. Saturday night was Josh Brandt's brooding and sinister portrayal, complete with diving into the audience in search of the thief! The depth of emotion Josh consitently brings to his roles is amazing.

We've had a chance to hang out a little with both Josh and Chris, as well as meet members of their families, (we've also had the pleasure of getting to know many of the other cast members and the teachers in the drama department) and I've to tell you that if you haven't taken advantage of the shows being put on at MVHS, you got to remedy that situation and quick! Lucky for you, there's one more performance this Friday night at 7pm. You can be sure that I'll be there!

We'll be posting a gallery of images from both nights (Wen' won't make the last show… she'll be deep in the heart of Texas… but that's for another post) and then it's waiting anxiously for the next production.

-sean

Chris Embery cleaning house as "The Miser"

 

Josh Brandt suspicious of everyone as "The Miser"