This weekend was the first of two fall drama productions, Human Geometry. Written by Tabor Academy English and drama teacher Mark Howland, the original comedy “blurs the lines of gender roles” and explores the way mathematical concepts can be used to define friendships and romantic relationships.
Howland has written seven drama productions for Tabor Academy, and he has described the play Human Geometry as “Tabor-specific,” with references to local landmarks such as Cumberland Farms and Lillard Dorm.
Howland directed the play, and senior Nicole McLaughlin developed the choreography. Juniors Lucy Saltonstall and Joslyn Jenkins were the music directors, uniting with junior Max Gonye and freshman Steven Walxim in the ukulele chorus.
The play opened Thursday, November 5, at the Will Parker Black Box Theatre and ran through Saturday night.
Opening night for fall production number two is Thursday, November 12. Bang Bang You’re Dead is a drama inspired by a real school shooting, and it addresses the topic of gun violence in America, particularly in schools. It poses the question: What would make a young man raised by loving parents shoot and kill his classmates?
“The play presents possible explanations for this horrific act but settles on none,” reads the play’s description. “We are left with the memories of the victims and the tortured thoughts of the killer.”
English teacher John Heavey is the director of the play, and he has said that he hopes to shed a light on the topic of the need for gun control.
Heavey has said that this production’s goal is to “open a dialogue,” and a Q&A session will follow each of the three performances.
Bang Bang You’re Dead opens November 12 at 7:30 pm at the Will Parker Black Box Theatre. Two more shows follow on November 13 at 7:30 pm and November 14 at 7:00 pm. Seating is limited, so reservations need to be made in advance through the receptionist’s desk at the Stroud Academic Center or by calling 508-748-2000.
Tabor also welcomes its annual Fall Dance recital on Thursday, November 12, at 6:30 pm at the Fireman Center for the Performing Arts off Front Street.
The dance team of 23 students is a winner, having won several first-place awards last year, including the largest competition, “Starpower,” in Rhode Island.
The event is free and open to the public.
By Jean Perry
