A Wrap on “Check Please,” Opening on “Chicago”

by Amelia Jimenez

The PCHS Drama Club’s production of Check Please had audience members laughing every night! This year, the drama club decided to switch things up this year with a lighthearted comedy, Check Please, a series of hysterical blind dates which gradually keep getting crazier throughout the scenes. 

The club was able to welcome 4 freshman cast members and a total of 27 actors this year. The switch from a serious play to a comedic play helped the new actors be more comfortable, with some also playing multiple roles. 

Ms. Baurle, the director added, “This year we chose a comedy for two main reasons for the fall play. The first reason is that I could tell that we had a very comedic group of students and I wanted to see them shine onstage. The other reason is that I think it is important that our student actors get a chance to experience acting in a variety of genres and forms. We haven’t done a comedy in a few years, so it was a good opportunity to try something new with our new group of actors.” 

The connection that students get from doing a comedy makes actors able to embrace authenticity.  Ace Buitron, a senior at PCHS, agreed. “I’m glad we got to do a comedy instead of something gloomy. Everything about Check Please was so funny to me, even the awkward parts. I feel like we all got a glimpse of one another and a chance to show how we truly are.” 

Not only did this production benefit our cast and crew but it also offered a chance for a variety of ages to see it, and catered to our high school students since the production was in modern times. And the best part of performing theatre is having an audience who can relate to the actors and the plot.

But that’s not all! The club has another production, a musical Chicago: Teen Edition! The cast is already hard at work on voice rehearsals, dance rehearsals and blocking rehearsals. There’s a lot to expect from Chicago, including advanced dancing performances, a jazzy ambiance, and catchy music! 

Ms. Baurle says, “We noticed we had some really talented dancers and performers and wanted to highlight that. There are over 30 speaking roles, so it also gives our large cast a chance to each have their moment onstage. It is an American staple, and the longest running American Musical of all time on Broadway.” 

The cast and crew are honored to perform such a well known musical for the audience. The cast has talented hardworking actors, singers, and dancers ,which are ensured to keep you entertained. 

There are also many graduating seniors this year, and it will be their last performance. Saying goodbye for them isn’t easy, but they’re dedicated to giving everyone a great final show. 

Alejandro Mojica Meza, a senior this year, says, “I’m excited to perform for the musical. It’s very sad being my last performance but I’m also feeling accomplished in meeting my goals here over the past few years.” 

You can see Chicago: Teen Edition in the PCHS Auditorium, March 12-15th.