Fife students to stage 'The Sword and The Stone'

Photo by matt nagle

THE YOUNG ACTORS ARE IN SERIOUS REHEARSALS FOR OPENING NIGHT, JULY 23.

School may be out for summer, but many students in Fife Schools are enjoying their days participating in the school district’s many summertime activities, such as the Wonderland Theater Company. For about 25 years now, teachers Dave and Teresa Hockman have been running this program. Together with other trained theater professionals, the Hockmans provide a challenging and rewarding experience for students in which to build confidence, make new friends and learn all about the art of theater.

Right now the company is deep in rehearsals for this year’s performance of  “The Sword and The Stone,” an original musical adaptation of the Arthurian legend written and directed by the Hockmans. Performances will be July 23 at 7 p.m., July 24 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and July 25 at 2 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center at Columbia Junior High. Tickets will be available at the door.

The company has only several weeks to polish up their act, but amazingly the Wonderland performers always put on a fantastic show that culminates all their hard work and dedication to learning many lines of dialog, songs and dances. This year, 63 students tried out for parts.

“That’s a lot more than usual,” said Dave Hockman. “This is the first time we had to turn people away.

“This summer’s theater show will be fun to come to with kids,” he continued. “It’s really kid-friendly, and we put stuff in there that adults will like as well.”

“There’s a lot of comedy in it, and lots of action, fight scenes and a bit of romance,” said Hayley Rathburn, who plays the evil Morgan le Fay in cast one.

Fife High sophomore Arika Matoba plays Morgan le Fay in cast two (all Hockman plays are double cast so more students can participate). She spoke to the benefits of theater arts to the young actors. “It’s really good for your confidence. My first play I was really shy and super quiet, but direction from the Hockmans has made me open up and be more confident. That’s why I do solos and go for bigger roles now because I’ve learned so much from it already.”

Rathburn said hearing applause at play’s end makes it all worthwhile, a gratifying homage to all the company’s efforts. “It’s the best feeling in the world.”

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