Thursday was the opening night for Merrillville High School’s (MHS) fall play “Rose and the Rime.” The play was a terrific showcase of student talent, on and off stage.
“Rose and the Rime” is about a town called Radio Falls which was once popular with its summer beach scene. Unfortunately, it has long since been cursed to its bleak snow ridden state.
Only stories from the older generations tell the tale of a city with a lake to swim in and days of fun in the sun. In the play, young Rose is on a journey through the blistery wintry weather, and the audience is invited along for the ride.
Director Tom Mackey explained how theater at MHS is an all-hands-on-deck production.
“We pride ourselves on having all the design work done by the students, which very few schools do, especially schools that have bigger budgets,” Mackey said. “They hire outside professionals, and their shows look amazing, and it's great, but I think it's a disservice to the students oftentimes that they don't get that experience.
“And so, you know, for better or worse, I kind of throw my students into the fire and see what they come up with,” he continued. “And you know we’ve got a crazy amalgamation of things happening on the stage highlighted by our 20-foot-tall witch puppet which was designed entirely and built entirely by students.”
Senior Priya Hildebrand, who plays Gracie the hairdresser, really enjoyed being able to have her hands in other aspects of the production.
“I worked on some of the tech stuff, too. Especially with the big puppet, there is a lot going on when it comes to the technical side,” she said.
This is Hildebrand’s sixth play at MHS, and she is currently the Vice President of the Thespian Troupe.
One of the eager audience members, Alicia Williamson, came to support her daughter Christon Williamson, who is an understudy wolf.
“I was contemplating on which night to come, and I thought I’d come to the opening! She’s very excited, and I’m excited to see her,” Williamson said.
Before the house was opened to the audience, Mackey held a circle with his actors and production crew. He gave a message to enjoy themselves and all the hard work they’ve put into this as well as a reminder to stay humble.
The “dead Toto '' award was given to the design crew who has been working since May on the sets. Then Mackey and his students closed the circle with all hands starting in a center hand pile and raised to the synchronized shout of the word “family.”
Proceeds from concessions served at intermission go to a scholarship fund for graduating seniors who wish to pursue theater in college. With a menu full of theatrical offerings that fit the play-bill of this show, no detail was missed.
Reading the menu before the show doesn’t quite give spoilers, but it definitely keeps the reader intrigued to see what’s yet to come in act two. Witch Fingers, White Rabbit Chow, Curse Free Chocolate Coins, and Haunted Forest Rice Pudding with Chocolate Shovel Sticks are the perfect themed goodies to accompany “Rose and the Rime.” Additionally, they could not forget the much-needed hot chocolate.
The play runs from November 4 through 6 at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, November 7 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets at the door are $10 for adults, $7 for senior citizens, and $5 for students. Socially distanced seating and masks are required inside of the auditorium.