KA drama production gives revitalized take on Shakespeare

By Erika Mathieu
Sunny South News

The Kate Andrews High School Drama department wrapped up their annual production last week after months of rehearsals.

The play, titled “I Hate Shakespeare”, involved students in grades 9-12 for acting and technical roles. The cast of the production began rehearsing in November 2022.

Although some of the characters and costumes are inspired by Elizabethan times, and much of the dialogue is taken from some of the playwright’s most recognizable soliloquies, the play quickly reveals the production is a nod to the literary icon which provides modern context to help introduce some of Shakespeare’s most famous works. The quick pacing, unconventional characters (including Jerry Springer), and pie-throwing made for an amusing and light-hearted production and stellar performances from the talented group of players.

With lots of laughs throughout, ELA and drama teacher at Kate Andrews High School, Amy McDougall said, “The script was selected because it’s funny,” but added it was a perfect match for the size of the cast and the script’s minimal set requirements.

After a three-night run, the cast wrapped up their finals show on March 24.