A former Howe Sound Secondary student with over 10 years of directing experience under his belt says he's astounded by the phenomenal acting talent he's found at HSSS.
"One of our leads came to rehearsal and [HSSS drama teacher] Janice Carroll didn't know his name and I just assumed that he had taken drama because he was such a natural," said Ryan Mooney.
Mooney is directing HSSS students in David and Lisa, which hits the stage Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday (March 8, 9, 10) at the Eagle Eye Community Theatre. Mooney chose the dramatic play to give the students more of a challenge than the typical light, comedic high school fare.
The 16-member cast will tackle two acts set in a school for youth with emotional and psychological problems.
"There's one long monologue in it that's hard for an adult actor, just a phenomenal monologue, and it's being tackled quite well by one of the boys," said Mooney.
Mooney is the second former student to direct a play at HSSS this year - earlier this year Amber Hamilton directed American Beauty - and Carroll says she plans to keep bringing in former students.
"We're trying to get the students different directing experiences," said Carroll.
And although Mooney has directed plays for UBC, Vancouver East Cultural Centre and The Fringe Festival, he says this experience was indeed different.
"I just love the learning process and watching them discover new things about their character. A lot of times directing adults as I've done in Vancouver, they come in and they know exactly how they see the character, whereas these guys are about discovering as they go along. It's very satisfying."
David and Lisa will be performed at the Eagle Eye Theatre Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday (March 8, 9 and 10), at 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices have yet to be established but will be in the $5 range.
