By Jennifer Ersalesi
Every fall, Rutherford High School presents an all-school play where students have the opportunity to share their many talents. Whether on stage, behind stage, or behind the lighting and sound boards, RHS students work with their Director, Mrs. Patricia Blanchard, and Stage Crew Director, Ms. Jennifer Gagis to put together a play that entertains and inspires audiences. This is Rutherford spoke with Director Mrs. Patricia Blanchard about this year's upcoming production of "Puffs".
TIR: What is this year’s all-school drama “Puffs” about?
Patricia Blanchard: Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic is a 2015 original play by New York-based playwright Matt Cox. The play is a parody of the Harry Potter book series by J. K. Rowling but from the perspective of the "Puffs". Puffs is the story of Wayne Hopkins, a regular boy who finds out he’s a wizard and goes to school in England where he makes two best friends and has adventures. This perhaps sounds familiar, however, Wayne is sorted as a Puff; he and the other Puffs want only to learn to be wizards and avoid attacks by the evil wizards.
TIR: What kind of roles are the actors challenged to play in this show?
PB: Most of the actors need to have a British accent, which is always a challenge. Some of the students have to play multiple characters, which is fun but also challenging for the actors.
TIR: What can audiences expect to see?
PB: The audience can expect to laugh and have a great time. Even if you've never read any of the Harry Potter series, you can still enjoy the show and understand the story. Puffs is the story of the underdogs, which everyone can relate to.
TIR: Which age group will appreciate this show the most?
PB: The great thing about this show is that it can be enjoyed by all age levels. This version is the "Young Wizard's" version, so it is appropriate for all ages.
TIR: When will the play be presented? How can people order tickets for any of the performances?
PB: The play will be presented at Rutherford High School on Friday, 11/18, and Saturday, 11/19 at 7:30 PM in the RHS auditorium. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the door or through Tricia Blanchard at the high school (pblanchard@rutherfordschools.org).
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