Tag Archives: JBHS Drama

Burroughs High Drama Releases Web Series “Act One: Scene Death!”

The Play Production class at John Burroughs High School releases the first installment of its original web series, Act One: Scene Death!, Wednesday, April 22, on IGTV and YouTube. Additional episodes of the drama will be released every week through the month of May.

“In this original classic whodunnit murder mystery, famous director, Kenneth Myers, is found dead in his mansion, and everyone becomes a suspect,” commented Drama teacher Guy Myers. “Set in 1946, follow our three plucky detectives as they try to solve the crime and nab the killer! Keep up with the clues, and you may be able to figure it out before they do!”

“We were all missing each other so much, and when we found out our Spring play was cancelled, I started thinking about how we could all still work together to create something fun for everyone to have access to from their homes!” explained Myers. “I came up with the idea of a murder mystery because I thought it would be easy for students to film their monologues at home as they are being interviewed about the murder!”

(Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

“We decided that I would be the dead body and it would become the mystery of who murdered Kenneth Myers,” continued Myers. “We have conceived, written, rehearsed, filmed and edited this series while completely in isolation under the safer at home guidelines. We have used only props and costumes and settings that we have access to in our homes!”

Using only what the students and Myers had available at home to shoot and edit Act One: Scene Death! has been a real challenge, Myers admitted, “But we couldn’t let what is going on keep us from working together and doing what we love to do… Tell stories!

Three of Myers’ Play Production students, who also happen to be Co-Presidents of the Improv Club – seniors Eli Staub (Detective Rheims), Jordyn Holt (Detective Aida) and Wyatt Wheeler (Detective Hubert) – mapped out the plot and characters. They play the three detectives trying to unravel the clues to solve the mysterious murder.

Then each actor – the Detectives and the Witnesses/Suspects – wrote his or her own monologue for their character.

Witnesses/Suspects in the cast of Act One: Scene Death! include seniors Hudson Bartram (Steve Hopper), Laura Brown (Auntie Annie), Daria Clark (Sally Sue), Arya Desai (Julianne Myers), Mario Fagioli (Lamont Valjean), Ava Kramer (Annabelle Williams), Ari Kretz (Marilyn Smith), Ethan Rockwell (Barry), Amanda Sanchez (Beatrice Myers), Lily Stillwater (Margaret Eastwood) and Adric Stone (Rico Williams.) Juniors are Johnny Clark (Heisenbeam), Lauren Duncanson (Rhonda Ravioli), Crystal Rubin (Trevor Budlight) and Amanda Silver (Cheryl Goldstein.) Sophomores include Ty Brown (John), Chris Conkle (Crime Bro #1), Dorian Farr (Jared Beagle), Rhett Hemingway (Bernard Bishop), Lincoln Melcher (Ruth “Granny” Myers) and Ronan Park (Crime Bro #3).

Senior Hudson Bartram is Steve Hopper. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

“After editing, it will appear as if they were together, but no one has ever been in the same room!” Myers said. “They send me takes and I give them feedback for reshoots about characterization, style, costumes and script writing. It’s been an educational experience for us all as we figure out how to manage to create something while in isolation!”

Burroughs High alumni Andrew Orbison is creating original music and Matt Bond is assisting with final edits and effects for the web series.

Act One: Scene Death! has 10 episodes and one to two will be released every week. Each episode will be about 10 – 15 minutes in length.

The web series is free for everyone to view, but donations to the JBHS Drama program are encouraged via a link on www.jbhsdrama.com. All donations will go to Burroughs High’s Stagecraft Technology program, which will suffer drastic cuts in the 2020-21 Burbank Unified budget. All money raised will go towards supporting the Drama program’s Stagecraft Tech needs in the coming school year.

Watch JBSH Drama’s Act One: Scene Death! on Instagram/IGTV @jbhsdramabackstage and YouTube at https://youtu.be/7q0mdZoWCzw on the JBHS Drama Productions channel.

: Jordyn Holt. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Wyatt Wheeler. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Eli Staub. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Arya Desai. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Arianna Kretz. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Rhett Hemingway. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Amanda Sanchez. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Laura Brown. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Ava Kramer. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Mario Fagioli. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Lincoln Melcher. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Daria Clark. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Hudson Bartram. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Lily Stillwater. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Ty Brown. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Lauren Duncanson. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Ethan Rockwell. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Ronan Park. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Dorian Farr. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Amanda Silver. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Crystal Rubin. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Johnny Clark. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Adric Stone. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: Chris Conkle. (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

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: (Image Courtesy JBHS Drama)

: John Burroughs High School Drama teacher Guy Myers helps students create the web series “Act One: Scene Death” remotely. (Photo Courtesy JBHS Dramas)

Burroughs High Presents “Chicago: High School Edition”

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John Burroughs High School Drama Department presents Chicago: High School Edition for three shows on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, February 7 – 9. Students and teachers in the Drama, Choir, Instrumental Music, Dance and Tech Crew programs have joined forces for this high-energy musical production.

From the book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse, based on the play by Maurine Dallas Watkins, with music by John Kander and lyrics by Ebb, the high school version of Chicago still features the audience favorites “All That Jazz,” “Cell Block Tango” and “Nowadays.”

Scenes from “Chicago: High School Edition” at John Burroughs High School. (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

Set in the roaring 20s, the story follows the travails of Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, who, with the aid of lawyer Billy Flynn, seek acquittal for their murder convictions and the freedom to dance and sing the nights away once again.

“We have all had so much fun working on this iconic script and timeless story with Fosse’s instantly identifiable choreography and fingerprint!” commented director and Drama teacher Guy Myers. “Our choreographer, Jen Stanley, has managed to get the stylistic precision just right, and has inspired our students to capture the spirit of vaudeville.”

“After winning Best Orchestra last year for West Side Story, Taylor Arakelian is once again conducting our talented student musicians this year!” he added. “The impressive steel bridge structure that spans the length of our stage was built by our dedicated tech crew, led by their teacher, Jon King.”

Scenes from “Chicago: High School Edition” at John Burroughs High School. (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“Every single song in Chicago will have the audience cheering, and our vocal director, Brendan Jennings, has worked his magic with our student voices yet again!” Myers continued.

“I could not be more grateful to be a part of Chicago!” commented senior Jordyn Holt. “Being transported into the Jazz Age is so much fun. Portraying Roxie has definitely been an incredible challenge for me. Not only does this classic demand so much physically, but her unquenchable thirst for fame has required me to really push myself emotionally.”

“It’s been so rewarding to uncover different layers of the vaudevillian star with the help of Mr. Myers and our awesome student producers, Amanda Sanchez and Ariana Kretz,” Holt added. “I am thrilled to sing my heart out alongside my best friends, and I know that this experience will prepare me immensely for the future. Let’s go out with a bang!”

Scenes from “Chicago: High School Edition” at John Burroughs High School. (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“Playing Billy Flynn in Chicago has been a blast,” said senior Eli Staub. “Ultimately, his role is that of a master manipulator, and he will stop at nothing to get what he wants. I’ve never played a character this cruel, but also one this entertaining – and iconic. I’m looking forward to opening night.”

“Along with Amanda Sanchez, I have had the pleasure of working as the student producer for Chicago,” commented senior Ariana Kretz. “Together, we have kept track of the student’s blocking, headshots, rehearsal schedules, costumes and props.”

“It’s been a pleasure to work with such a supportive cast, who never fail to make me feel welcomed and loved. Throughout the process, it’s been incredible to watch the growth of the actors in the show. Students who have never been in a play or musical before have grown into their parts beautifully, and I’m ecstatic for everyone to see their hard work!”

Scenes from “Chicago: High School Edition” at John Burroughs High School. (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“As with every Guy Myers production, Chicago goes above and beyond in its staging and design, and I am proud to be even a small part of such a wonderful show,” Kretz also said.

“Being able to slip into the role of Velma has been a dream,” commented senior Janina Colucci. “I’ve always loved expressing myself in extreme forms – as Velma I can do just that.”

“She’s fiery, feisty, and fun allowing me to be extremely over the top and give it my all. Not only do I love who I’m playing but who I’m performing with as well,” Colucci added. “Jordyn, my girl for life, is such a strong and talented performer, making my job easy and incredibly fun. The cast loves the show and I hope everyone loves it as much as we do!”

Scenes from “Chicago: High School Edition” at John Burroughs High School. (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“This is the twelfth year the performing arts department has collaborated on a mainstage musical, and this one is going to bring sparkle, sass and, well,…all that jazz! You won’t want to miss this one!” Myers also said.

Tickets for Chicago: High School Edition are available online in advance of the show here and at the box office ahead of each performance. Tickets are $25 general admission, $20 for seniors and $10 for students.

Curtains rise for Chicago: High School Edition at 7:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, February 7 and 8, and at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 9. The John Burroughs High School auditorium is located at 1920 W. Clark Avenue in Burbank and plenty of free parking is available in adjacent lots.

: Scenes from “Chicago: High School Edition” at John Burroughs High School. (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: Scenes from “Chicago: High School Edition” at John Burroughs High School. (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: Scenes from “Chicago: High School Edition” at John Burroughs High School. (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: Scenes from “Chicago: High School Edition” at John Burroughs High School. (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: Scenes from “Chicago: High School Edition” at John Burroughs High School. (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: Scenes from “Chicago: High School Edition” at John Burroughs High School. (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: Scenes from “Chicago: High School Edition” at John Burroughs High School. (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: Scenes from “Chicago: High School Edition” at John Burroughs High School. (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: Scenes from “Chicago: High School Edition” at John Burroughs High School. (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: Scenes from “Chicago: High School Edition” at John Burroughs High School. (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: Scenes from “Chicago: High School Edition” at John Burroughs High School. (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: Scenes from “Chicago: High School Edition” at John Burroughs High School. (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

JBHS Drama Presents “The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night-Time”

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The Drama department at John Burroughs High School presents three performances of the Tony Award-winning play The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, November 22, 23 and 24, in the school auditorium.

Based on the novel by Mark Haddon amd adapted for the stage by Simon Stephens, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time follows the story of 15-year-old Christopher, who discovers his neighbor’s dead dog and takes it upon himself to clear his name from suspicion and follow the clues to determine who murdered Wellington the dog. Christopher, while exceptional at mathematics, has trouble reading social cues and interacting with others in everyday life, manifesting what many describe as Asberger’s or autism spectrum behavior.

Senior Eli Staub performs the lead role of Christopher Boone in John Burroughs High School Drama’s “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.” (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

According to Haddon, as he wrote on his blog in 2010, the book is “a novel about difference, about being an outsider, about seeing the world in a surprising and revealing way.”

“Directing Curious Incident, I have reflected on how lucky I am to work with such talented and dedicated students!” commented Drama teacher Guy Myers. “As this show tries to help the audience see things through Christopher’s eyes, the students and I have taken great care to be respectful of his story and the unique way he sees the world.”

(Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“This play is inventive and innovative and unlike anything we have ever produced here at JBHS,” he added. “Hopefully everyone comes out to support our wonderful program and experience this special performance by our drama students! With live music and quirky staging and choreography, this is going to be a memorable night of theatre.”

“Being a part of The Curious Incident of the Dog In the Night-Time is like nothing else I have ever done,” said senior Jordyn Holt. “Visually, the show is captivating and unique, and our lighting, sound and tech crew all do a fabulous job at executing Mr. Myers vision for this compelling show.”

(Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“I have loved playing Siobhan, Christopher’s teacher, as her guidance and influence on him has allowed me to tap into a mature and understanding side of myself. Being able to help Christopher process information, but also to merely observe how his mind uniquely functions is really valuable, as it not only provides me with a deeper understanding of students with autism, but if students with familial troubles as well.”

“Christopher is resilient, intelligent, brave, and loyal, and it has been an honor to play such a prominent part in his mind,” Holt also said. “It’s also been such a thrill to perform alongside some of my best friends in our last dramatic show of high school; I cannot thank Mr. Myers or this wonderful cohort more.”

(Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“Preparing to play Ed has been quite a whirlwind. Ed is complex. He loves his son, but doesn’t have a full comprehension of how to show that love, so it manifests in anger, which has been difficult to portray,” commented senior Wyatt Wheeler. “It has been draining to get into the mindset night after night of a man who has had everything stripped from him, but it has provided me a lot of empathy.”

“I’ve been spending a lot more time thinking about what other people are dealing with, and that’s what I want to convey with this show – everybody is a human, and everyone has struggles. This show paints the image of flawed people, from Ed’s missteps as a dad to Judy’s attempts to understand her son.”

(Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“Christopher has Asperger’s, and the show does a fantastic job of showing him as a kid who happens to have Asperger’s rather than a kid with Asperger’s,” added Wheeler. “I feel that people will leave this show more empathetic towards others, and being a part of that is something special.”

“Working as both an actor and student producer on Curious Incident has allowed me to really see the love and effort that has gone into this production,” said senior Ariana Kretz. “Because of my work both onstage and off, I can say with certainty that each individual who has helped to create this show has put deliberate thought and care into their role, whether that be as an ensemble member, costume designer, props manager or leading part.”

(Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“The opportunity to tell such a unique story about a largely underrepresented demographic of our society (those with autism) has been a huge learning experience and is incredibly meaningful to everyone involved. It’s been a pleasure to work as a student producer on this show, and I’m so grateful that I get to end my senior year in Drama with Curious Incident!”

“Playing Christopher in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time was a challenge,” commented senior Eli Staub. “Portraying a character with Asperger’s not only requires the actor to do enough research so that the portrayal is respectful and accurate, but also figure out how to see the world through a slightly different lens.”

(Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“What made the role fun was being able to look at the world a little differently — with more curiosity and analysis — and then letting that inform my acting choices. I aspired to work from the inside out as opposed to the outside in, so that I wasn’t copying other portrayals but instead finding a unique and special voice.”

“Christopher is a brave and passionate boy with a very unique voice and boundless curiosity for the universe,” Staub also said. “I loved playing this character and am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to be him.”

“This production promises to be something extra special, not only because of the incredible Tony-award winning script based on the terrific novel by Mark Haddon, but also because our students, parents and community have worked so hard to get it right,” Myers added.

(Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“With heartfelt performances from our students, fantastic tech direction from Jon King, beautiful lighting design by alum Billy Yakes, elaborate staging and movement, a fantastic three piece band led by alum Andrew Orbison, a brilliant new motion orb lighting system that the drama and choir departments co-purchased together, and some new set pieces built by John Benne and his students, you won’t want to miss this!”

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time opens Friday, November 22 at 7:00 p.m., with additional performances Saturday, November 23, at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, November 24, at 2:00 p.m.

Student tickets are $10, seniors $15 and adults $20. Tickets may be purchased in advance via the jbhsdrama.com website or at the box office ahead of each show.

The John Burroughs High School auditorium is located at 1920 W. Clark Avenue in Burbank.

: (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

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: Senior Eli Staub performs the lead role of Christopher Boone in John Burroughs High School Drama’s “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.” (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

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: (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

JBHS Drama Presents “The Iliad, The Odyssey, And All Of Greek Mythology (In 99 Minutes Or Less)”

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John Burroughs High School Drama Department presents The Iliad, The Odyssey, and All of Greek Mythology (in 99 Minutes or Less) in the school auditorium this Friday through Sunday, May 10 – 12.

With a book written by Jay Hopkins and John Hunter, the play is a mashup of well-known Greek myths given a contemporary twist: “In this easy to understand comedy, you will see Gods and Goddesses walk the red carpet, learn about the creation of mankind and how the gods botched it up and witness Pandora’s fateful decision to open that ominous box! Famous love stories are presented like dating shows and Greek Wars and tragedies are presented like sporting event highlights, with costume changes and madcap mayhem!”

(Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“In The Iliad, Helen of Troy gets kidnapped, leading to a ten-year slap-fight of epic proportions followed by The Odyssey where Odysseus attempts to get home for another ten years while fighting seductresses, monsters and even the Gods themselves!”

“This show, The Iliad, The Odyssey, and All of Greek Mythology (in 99 Minutes or Less), has been a joy to be a part of!” commented senior Caroline Dowers. “A majority of the cast is playing multiple roles which gives everyone a chance to explore fun and interesting character choices!”

“I am playing the characters Thetis, Chlamydia, Carol and Trojan Soldier – they are all very different from one another and a blast to play,” Dowers added. “This play is the last addition to my list of fun and memorable productions I have been a part of at JBHS.”

(Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“It is my last show with the Drama Department and I will surely miss being a part of the phenomenal productions we have put on, but I am glad to be leaving with joyful memories and amazing friends!” she also said.

“I’m so grateful for the opportunity to have this production be my final performance at Burroughs,” said senior Jack Weerts. “It’s so high energy, with constant action and constant hilarity, it’s certainly not a show you can get tired of!”

(Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“I am loving the challenge of playing seven different parts in the play, from a Cyclops to the Greek Hero Theseus, and could not ask for a better cast or a better director than Mr. Myers,” Weerts added. “His vision always blows me away and is making this show one of the most fun productions I’ve been a part of. If you have 99 minutes to spare in your day, bring your stopwatch and stop by!”

“This is a slapstick farce that has made rehearsing this show one of the most fun we have ever worked on,” commented Drama Department head Guy Myers. “The script allows the students some freedom to improvise, and I am always impressed with how hilarious they are while thinking on their feet.”

“Each actor plays many roles as they speed through all of Greek mythology, making this show educational and entertaining.”

“Inventive staging, physical comedy and ridiculous characters make this show a great choice for the whole family!” he also said. “AND we are offering a free ticket to any junior high school student who shows up to the box office with their middle school ID with them!”

The Iliad, The Odyssey, and All of Greek Mythology (in 99 Minutes or Less) begins at 7:00 p.m. on May 10 and 11 and at 2:00 p.m. on May 12. Tickets are $10 for students/seniors and $15 for adults and can be purchased in advance at jbhsdrama.com or at the box office day of show.

The John Burroughs High School auditorium is located at 1920 W. Clark Avenue in Burbank.

: (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

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Burroughs’ “West Side Story” Wows A SRO Audience

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Absolutely. Freaking. Awesome.

Burroughs’ performance of West Side Story last Saturday night amazed even fans well acquainted with the high bar of excellence of the Performing Arts Department.

The studio-quality sound, lighting and sets are by now the standard operating procedure. And the live orchestra and the singers routinely rise to college-level.

(Photo By Ross Benson)

But last night was special, even for Burroughs. Arya Desai’s (Maria) angel voice just didn’t rise, it soared. And she navigated the notes with beautiful precision, as in the chromatic lead-in to “Somewhere.” Coen Sosa’s (Tony) rich tenor voice shone in solo pieces like “Maria” and also perfectly complemented Desia’s romantic soprano. Whatever the star-crossed fate their characters were to suffer, their duets were a match made in heaven.

Janina Colucci (Anita) knew how to put fire in her singing, in keeping with her smoldering character. Trenton Rogers (Riff) knew how to convey the right mix of toughness and vulnerability, and gave the show a rousing start.

(Photo By Ross Benson)

Everyone—not just the leads—were at the top of their game. They weren’t just singing superbly, they were acting superbly. Usually, it takes men in their early twenties to credibly play teenagers; actual male teens are deemed too immature. Not so with these guys. The men had the chops to own the Jets and the Sharks. And as for the women, you get the feeling any one of them would already be a serious contender for a lead role in a local theatrical production.

(Photo By Ross Benson)

And as if all that wasn’t enough to blow the audience away, there was the dancing. Oh, was there ever. Serious dancing. Dancing that did justice to Jerome Robbins’ demanding choreography: The “Mambo” at the high school gym. The “America” dance off in 9/4 time. The coiled-snake “Cool” scene, the sudden bursts in the rumbles between the gangs. The quiet grace in the “Somewhere” scene. The hilarious “Gee, Officer Krupke” set piece. Throughout the musical, the dancers combined spontaneity with well-defined movements and did not let their tremendous energy flag for a single second.

“This year we’re blessed with a large group of triple-threat performers,” remarked Vocal Director Brendan Jennings during the intermission. And how.

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JBHS Drama Presents “West Side Story”

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John Burroughs High School Drama department presents the Tony Award-winning classic West Side Story for three performances Friday through Sunday, February 8 to 10. Students from the drama, musical theater, vocal music, instrumental music and tech crew programs at JBHS have all joined forces to put on an entertaining show.

With music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, JBHS Drama Director Guy Myers follows the book by Arthur Laurents.

Vocal Music director Brendan Jennings guides the singing portions and Instrumental Music head Taylor Arakelian conducts the pit orchestra, comprised of a majority of JBHS students, bolstered by a few professional musicians.

(Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

West Side Story tells of “two young lovers caught between prejudice and warring street gangs in the musical retelling of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.” Set in New York City, the Montagues and Capulets become the rival street gangs, the Jets and the Sharks. Star-crossed lovers Tony and Maria update the tragically doomed tale of Romeo and Juliet.

The musical score continues to be regarded as one of the “best ever written” with classic songs including “Tonight,” “Maria,” “America” and “Somewhere.”

“This show has been an exhilarating experience!” commented Myers. “The students have been so dedicated throughout the rehearsal process, keeping up with our amazing choreographer, Jennifer Stanley, as she challenges them with difficult Jerome Robbins’ style dance routines.”

(Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“Mr. Jennings, our vocal director, and I have been wanting to produce West Side Story for a long time and have been waiting for the right mix of triple threat actors to make this production the best it can be!”

“Our experienced tech crew, led by Jon King, will be assembling a professional two-story revolving set that promises to wow audiences, and our mostly student orchestra will be led by our instrumental music teacher, Taylor Arakelian,” added Myers. “This is a show that you won’t want to miss! I bet people are going to want to see it more than once! It’s a classic!”

(Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“I’d just like to say that every production put on by the JBHS Drama program has an incredible level of professionalism and care that is amazing to be a part of every single time I’m lucky enough to be [part of],” commented senior Coen Sosa, who plays Tony.

“The acting and songs in this production are more difficult than what I’ve had to do in the past, so this production has definitely given me many opportunities to expand as an actor, singer and performer which I’m very appreciative of.”

“My absolute favorite part of any production is the people that I get to share the experience with. It’s so fun to see everyone else grow into their role and continue to put their all into making the production its best.”

“I would also like to comment on how amazing Arya Desai is as Maria,” Sosa added. “Every single time we have a scene together, even if it’s only the first time running through it, she finds a way to capture the emotion and the passion behind each word she’s saying. Which just makes my job a thousand times easier when you’re working with someone that talented.”

“I’m so excited to be a part of such an amazing production of West Side Story, and that I get to play an iconic and beloved role,” commented Desai, a JBHS junior. “I definitely feel that I’ve connected to Maria and learned a lot about myself along the way!”

(Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“The school and the drama program has been so dedicated to telling the story the right way, and I think it definitely shows through the effort put into the set, outfits and performance of each individual. I’m so proud to be a part of this story, considering the important message which it carries, especially in this day and age where racial tensions are rising again.”

“This show has a special place in the hearts of everyone involved and the directors who’ve put it on. I can’t wait to see how the public reacts to the show, and what it will mean to all of the ethnic minorities which have been put in the backseat for much of musical theater,” she also said. “The show will be a challenge to all involved, but it’s one which will prove the versatility of the JBHS performing arts programs, and an experience I will cherish forever!”

(Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“Working on West Side Story has been an incredible experience,” commented student producer, junior Wyatt Wheeler. “It has been my first experience with a musical, and producing it has allowed me to see the inner workings of the program and appreciate the hard work people like Mr. Myers and the rest of the creative team put in, and the hard work shows in the quality of the work we put out.”

“I have enjoyed every minute of the process, and I hope that everyone who sees the show has as much fun seeing it as we had putting it together.”

“I have so much love to give to Mr. Myers and the drama program at Burroughs,” added senior Trenton Rogers, who plays Riff. “This production has been one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had since West Side Story has been one of my favorite shows since I was a kid, and the cast and crew have made the experience a million times better. I cannot wait for people to see what we have in store!”

“As one of the Jets (the greatest gang since the T-Birds from Grease), I have been lucky enough to spend countless hours with some of the most talented and raucous boys on the Burroughs campus,” said senior Jack Weerts, who portrays A-rab. “Trenton Rogers and Coen Sosa, playing the parts of Riff and Tony respectively, have been so much fun to work with, and I could not have asked for a better group of guys to rumble with.”

“The JBHS Drama and VMA department are well known for putting on professional-grade productions and this one is definitely among the best. Under the direction of Guy Myers and Brendan Jennings, I can guarantee that this is a show you won’t want to miss, and we’ll have you snapping right along with us by the end!”

“While I’ve been participating in the drama program since I was a freshman… this is the first time I’ve assisted in the musical theater program,” said senior student producer Zachary Hagen-Smith. “West Side Story is easily my favorite musical we’ve done.”

(Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

“Firstly, the music is incredibly coordinated and articulate even without lyrics, conveying narrative through solely instrumentals,” he also said. “Beyond the soundtrack’s quality (which spread evident given the Bernstein-Sondheim collaboration), the story of Tony and Maria is a compelling one that spoke to civil rights issues of the 1960s and still speaks to current debates about immigration, renewed racist movements and urban violence. It is truly a timely piece and I hope to do it justice.”

West Side Story runs for three shows: Friday and Saturday, February 8 and 9, at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, February 10, at 2:00 p.m. General admission tickets are $10 for students/seniors/children and $20 for adults. Tickets may be purchased online here or at the box office window ahead of the performances.

The John Burroughs High School auditorium is located at 1920 W. Clark Avenue in Burbank. Plenty of free parking is available in adjacent lots and on surrounding streets.

: (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

Burroughs Drama Presents “Dark Of The Moon”

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John Burroughs High School Drama department presents Dark of the Moon, based on the folk song “The Ballad of Barbara Allen,” for three shows on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, November 16, 17 and 18.

Set in the Smoky Mountains, Dark of the Moon tells the story of a witch-boy named John, who falls in love with the beautiful Barbara Allen.

The cast of JBHS Drama’s fall 2018 play, “Dark Of The Moon.” (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

After making a deal with two witch doctors so he can become human, John marries Barbara Allen, raises a family and enjoys happiness and being part of the community. However, the mountain witches resent him and want him back and some of the more superstitious townspeople fear him and want him to leave.

“This hauntingly beautiful play carries a message of acceptance,” comments director and Drama department head Guy Myers. “John the witch-boy so badly want to be human, but the townspeople let their fear and their ignorance get the better of them and they don’t want to allow him to be one of them.”

“The show begs people to have a heart and not to blindly follow our leaders, but to think for themselves.”

Photo Courtesy Guy Myers

“My Play Production students this year may be the most talented bunch I’ve ever had, and their energy and commitment are bringing this landscape to life,” added Myers. “The audience is going to love the frightening and creepy witches of the Smoky Mountains and will be tapping their toes to the songs of the mountainfolk until things take a darker turn.”

“This show will certainly entertain audiences while also leaving them with something to think about after the curtain falls.”

“Dark of the Moon is a really great play – maybe my favorite that I’ve done at Burroughs,” commented senior Zachary Hagen-Smith, who portrays the Conjur Man. “Not only does it have a compelling plot and characters that, despite being fantastic, are relatable, Dark of the Moon also has this wonderful juxtaposition between humor and tragedy, especially in the village scenes set in real life.”

Photo Courtesy Guy Myers

“Often a particularly horrible moment will be preceded by a very funny one, which really highlights man’s heartlessness and potential for bad. In an age of rising xenophobia I think Dark of the Moon serves as a powerful reminder for the need of empathy and acceptance in society and the horrors that accompany their absence.”

“This is my first time student producing a show, it was definitely a little bit challenging being my first time but it was so much fun and an amazing learning experience!” said senior Alexia Calderon. “This production really gave me the chills – it’s so creepy and the story is told so perfectly. I want to thank Mr.Myers for trusting me with the role of student producer.”

Photo Courtesy Guy Myers

“Playing the town bully, Marvin Hudgens, is a challenge, but it’s been fun to completely alter my chemistry with my cast-mates,” said senior Jack Weerts. “I am grateful to be working with talented actors Paris Stacy (John the Witch Boy) and Claire Flynn (Barbara Allen) in this production.”

“Mr. Guy Myers’ vision and direction always brilliantly brings stories to life. The show is artistic and fun, musical and heartfelt, all the things needed to make a wonderful production!”

“Dark of the Moon is hauntingly beautiful and each scene is incredibly well done,” added senior Varonica Haug. “My character, Mrs. Allen, the mother of Barbara Allen, is a some what goofy woman and all she wants is Barbara to get married, but as the show goes she becomes more and more conflicted between the well being of the town and Barbara being happy.”

Photo Courtesy Guy Myers

“Dark of the Moon is one of the most beautiful shows I have had the honor of being a part of, any scene with the witches is stunning and haunting and we’ve really captured a great mix of scary yet beautiful. This is a great show with such a powerful message that is not one to miss!”

General admission tickets are $10 for students and seniors and $15 for adults. Advance tickets can be purchased online at jbhsdrama.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the door.

Performances begin at 7:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, November 16 and 17, and at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 18. The John Burroughs High School Auditorium is located at 1920 W. Clark Avenue in Burbank, at the corner of Keystone and Clark.

JBHS Drama can be found on Facebook and Instagram, for more information on the program and additional photos.

: Photo Courtesy Guy Myers

: Photo Courtesy Guy Myers

: Photo Courtesy Guy Myers

: Photo Courtesy Guy Myers

: Photo Courtesy Guy Myers

: Photo Courtesy Guy Myers

: Photo Courtesy Guy Myers

: The cast of JBHS Drama’s fall 2018 play, “Dark Of The Moon.” (Photo Courtesy Guy Myers)

: Photo Courtesy Guy Myers

: Photo Courtesy Guy Myers

: Photo Courtesy Guy Myers

JBHS Drama “Midsummer SoCal” Puts Shakespeare On A California Beach

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John Burroughs High School Drama presents Midsummer SoCal for three performances Friday, Saturday and Sunday, May 11-13. Written by Ken Ludwig, the play re-tells Shakespeare’s comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream set at a current-day, Southern California beach.

The story revolves around the impending marriage of the Governor of California, the love affairs of four hormonal beach-bound high school crushes, a lively crew of fairies ready to party and the staff of the local beauty salon trying to put on a play run by Patti Quince and Stylist Nikki Bottom, explained Director Guy Myers.