High school drama club prepares for show

IRONWOOD - Local high school students are preparing for their first performance through the Ironwood Carnegie Library's drama club.

The students will perform "Rumbo," a parody of action heroes, celebrity, beauty pageants and popular culture.

According to show director Mary Hansen, it is the first time students from different school districts are participating in the same drama club.

"Schools have had their own clubs in the past, but there has never been a collaborative effort like this before," Hansen said. "The show features ninth through 12th grade students from Hurley, Ironwood, Bessemer and home schools."

The club also features middle school students from across the area.

Twenty-five students will participate, with some having on-stage experience, and others gracing the stage for the first time.

Ironwood senior Brett Daniels said he has been in a few shows prior to "Rumbo," and loves being on the stage.

"It is so much fun," Daniels said. "I started to show an interest in theater and Mary contacted me to be in the show."

According to Hurley freshman Tom Lardinois, being on stage is "invigorating."

He said, "If someone has a good imagination, and feels the need to express themselves, they should really try theater."

The drama club was initiated in the fall at the library, and according to Lynne Wiercinski, library employee, the process has been "so much fun.

"When they have practiced here, we have had the best time," Wiercinski said. "Listening to them practicing and laughing, patrons and students alike can't help but smile when this group is together. There is this sense of brotherhood. They've got each others' backs, and are learning what it like to work together, and stick together. I'm so proud to be a part of this."

For Ironwood freshman Ethan Puisto, it's like being a part of a team.

"It's just like being in a sport," Puisto said. "We all have to work together, and there are no small parts, only small actors. I love being the characters, performing different personas and meeting different people. It's a lot of fun, and we're all in it together."

The goal is to continue doing shows in the future, including two or three performances next year.

"I really do love these kids," Hansen said. "When you see them at face value, and then see what they produce on stage, you are just blown away. Parents are going to be very surprised by what they see. They have this confidence on stage, and it is a total team effort. As a group, we decide everything and I am so proud of them."

Showtime

The club will be on stage for two performances of "Rumbo" this weekend at the Historic Ironwood Theatre. The shows are Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.

"It's a spoof on 'Rambo' and the Arnold Schwarzenegger movies," Hansen said. "It's hysterical, and each time these kids perform it, they bring something new. It's hard to rehearse because we're too busy laughing."

The play will feature sound effects of gunfire.

"We just want to forewarn people, so they do not get overwhelmed," Hansen said.

Hansen thanked the library and theater for allowing the play to happen.

"They have been so supportive of these kids," Hansen said.

For more information on the show, ticket prices or to purchase tickets, call the Ironwood Carnegie Library at 906-932-0203 or the Historic Ironwood Theatre at 906-932-0618, or ironwoodtheatre.net.