Drama Production: Tales of Poe

by: Jacob Pantalone

Image courtesy of Hanover Studios

In the fall, Delone Catholic had aired one of its most unique plays yet. Tales of Poe was a performance that included many of Edgar Alan Poe's poems and stories. 

Senior Hannah Poppek, who was the student director of the production, played many roles in the play including her biggest contribution the Narrator in “The Mask of the Red Death.” She originally did not try out for the role of the narrator, but instead wished to be the Young Lady because of her background in dance. The director said otherwise, and since she already had a lead role and suggested that she be the Narrator instead. 

The part was a new experience for her, she had never played a “creepy character”, so she took extra time with her director to learn her lines and fit more into her sinister role. 

Since Poppek was the student director she was in charge of organizing practices and getting things ready for the play. Practice would consist of warmups and exercises to prepare the actors for their roles while also going over their lines, while the tech team would prepare set pieces and backgrounds. 

The most difficult part of the whole process for Poppek was working with the cast. It was her first time directing, and was a very new experience. “It was fun and very rewarding but it can be stressful when some cast members don't cooperate or take notes.”

Still, it all paid off. The opening night was a huge success and the actors all had a blast. 

When asked if the production was worth all the stress and effort in the end, Poppek responded, “I have been doing Delone Catholic theatre since freshman year, and it got better every year. This production was the most rewarding though, so it was definitely worth it. I enjoy working with my director and the cast. My director is very passionate about theatre, and he is very professional but is also silly when you get to know him.”

Advice for future actors? Poppek responded, “Don't be afraid to get out of your comfort zone, theatre is a safe place where you embrace the character you are portraying, but at the same time you learn more about yourself, and what it's like to be a part of such a strong team of people.”