Putting on an extravagant play such as The Pirates of Penzance looks like a pleasure.
But school productions are not all about fun and games.

“Being in a play is about learning to be responsible, being part of a team and larger goals, and commitment. That type of education is of big value here,” says teacher Jeff Shadlock, who is producing the show.

The Pirates of Penzance, one of the all-time favourite Gilbert and Sullivan operettas, will be brought to life by students at Nantyr Shores Secondary School May 22, 23 and 24.

Thirty five students are taking part in the production, which includes aspiring thespians, the school band, as well as dancers and singers from all grades.

The show offers the opportunity for students to learn in different ways. “I think plays, because of all the aspects, you draw from business people for the program, the visual arts people, techies get into making sets and the audio visuals come alive, ” Shadlock says.

While it is his first time in the role of producer, Shadlock, who resides in Barrie, was previously involved in presentations of The Wizard of Oz and Grease.
Shadlock said he is delighted to be working with some of the school’s most enthusiastic students.
 
 
 
Rehearsals began in October for the very demanding musical. Some of the actors are veterans from previous plays. But Shadlock said he recruited a few students from the soccer team for the cast. He is also thankful to have Grade 12 students who would not ordinarily come out for a theatre activity, but are giving it a try. “It’s immensely important to have this opportunity for kids. When you ask them for their time, they basically have to understand this is also a showcase for the school – it’s a community thing.”
 
Shadlock views the exposure to theatre arts and musicals like those by Gilbert and Sullivan as essential as studying Shakespeare in English class. He noticed that students are finding relevance in the experience. In fact, one student commented that 50 years ago her grandmother played the same role she now has.
 
 
With sporting events heating up this month, many of the students in the show are working extra hard. The leads are double cast with Mable played by Sarah Thatcher and Kaitlyn Blair. Cameron Hurd and Garrett Nikannen will portray the role of Fredric. Corey DeAdder and Kyle Nikannen will play the Pirate King.
 
Nick Fornier takes on the character of the Major General single handed for each performance, as does Hailey Hunter who plays Ruth. Teacher, Tarra Scott is director and choreographer, and the show also boasts an outstanding chorus.
 
For tickets to the Nantyr Shores production of Pirates of Penzance, May 22, 23, 24 at 7 p.m., and May 24, 1 p.m., call the school at 431-5950 or contact Mary Jefferies at mjefferies@mail.scdsb.on.ca.