Among many activities that the pandemic has disrupted, Stamford High’s Drama Club, The Strawberry Hill Players, seems to be one of its biggest. It is hard to find a way to sing, dance and act on stage, while compiling with the CDC guidelines and The Stamford Board of Education. These dedicated, young actors and actresses didn’t let that get in the way of their spotlight and went on to find a successful and safe way to perform.

After a few minor technical difficulties, Drama Club President Molly Emmens says, “our advisors have found the best way to allow all of us to perform while keeping everyone safe and happy.” Over the fall, they were able to have virtual and outdoor socially distant rehearsals and keep everyone apart to record their shows. It is incredible to see these students still be able to do what they love, especially to the seniors, who for some of them, it will be their last time on the stage.

Their method was put to the test when it came time to selling tickets for their virtual shows. Making good use of social media, they advertised their shows on all platforms and even created a trailer for “Our Place”. Luckily, they had a massive amount of support from the Stamford community and their annual fall productions, “Our Place” and “It’s a Wonderful Life” turned out to be a huge success. According to Molly Emmens, they sold close to 300 tickets in total.

In theatre there is a saying, “the show must go on”. The Strawberry Hill Players have shown that the show must go on, even through the toughest times. I think that many other clubs who are discouraged should look to them as a great example and role model. If you really love something, like these students do, then come up with ideas and ways to make it happen. They were able to take a no win situation and turn it into a positive. Many aspire to return back to normal, but you have to make do with what you have now.