COLD LAKE - In the dimly lit corridors of Cold Lake High School, a sense of anticipation hangs in the air as the stage is set for an unforgettable theatrical experience. "Stars Over Arkham," a gripping noir thriller directed by Dana Schwab a theatrical director and teacher at Cold Lake High School. The play promises to transport audiences to the mysterious streets of 1930s Arkham, Massachusetts, where mystery and intrigue lurk around every corner.
"Stars Over Arkham" began its journey in 2019, with Schwab's vision of crafting a play that would be both unsettling and heartfelt. Reflecting on the play's inception, Schwab adds, "Our group of 2020 Drama students were all set to perform it, but then COVID sent our students home three weeks before opening night." Despite the challenges, Schwab and her students remained undeterred, determined to bring their vision to life.
At the heart of "Stars Over Arkham" is Detective Dirk Diamond, a complex character grappling with loss and redemption. "He's not ready to be back taking cases, but he's hired to retrieve a valuable artifact from a 'haunted house,'” Schwab explains. As Diamond delves deeper into the mystery, he encounters a cast of intriguing characters, each with their own secrets and motivations.
"Stars Over Arkham" is more than just a play, it's a testament to the power of collaboration and inclusivity. Monique MacInnis and Susan Clemens, educational assistants at Cold Lake High School, have played integral roles in bringing the production to fruition. Clemens, serving as the ASL interpreter, has worked tirelessly to ensure that the play is accessible to all audience members.
"Susan took the script and translated it herself," Schwab shares, "She has been rehearsing alongside my students every week in order to make the show accessible to more members of the community."
For Schwab, the support of the community is paramount in nurturing the arts. "The Drama program at Cold Lake High School is supported entirely by community participation," she emphasizes. "When audience members buy a ticket, it funds next year's show."
As the curtains rise on May 2, 3, and 4, audiences are invited to immerse themselves in the captivating world of "Stars Over Arkham." With its blend of mystery, suspense, and heartfelt storytelling, this production promises to leave a lasting impression on all who experience it. "Come and see us in the Cold Lake High School theatre," Schwab invites, "to see something truly special."
The play will be taking place and the Cold Lake High School theatre. Tickets can be purchased in advance online at https://nlsd.schoolcashonline.com, or at the door, with both cash and credit options available. Doors open at 5:00 PM, and the show starts promptly at 5:30 PM, running until 7:00 PM. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for students.
