The high school student members of the Wareham Viking Theatre Company club presented a hilarious and, at times, heart-wrenching, show comprised of student-directed performances on Thursday night in the High School auditorium. 

 “It’s like a variety show,” said Jenna Maloney, a student producer and performer. “There are a variety of songs, monologues, duets, acts, whatever students chose to perform.”

Twenty-five actors and actresses took on the unique challenge by presenting their acting talents in short drama scenes.  

Each performance was critiqued by a panel of judges who scored the teams based on the strengths and weaknesses of the actors' physical and vocal characterizations, technical elements, and overall effectiveness of the ensemble. 

At the end of each act, hosts Indiana Troupe and Ariana Rodriguez presented the students with Oscars for unique, yet amusing accomplishments. Some club members received a gold paper accolade for “the best wig,” “best hug,” and “most curly hair.”

Parents and students filled the auditorium to support the actors. 

“I like watching all the kids. They are talented performers. Every time you come you see them, grow at what they are doing,” said Maloney’s grandmother, Sharon Powers. 

Some students admitted that getting up in front of people and acting is not always easy, especially for those who are shy or uncertain of themselves. But doing it once can help them get past their stage fright.

“I think it really boosts confidence and I use it as an outlet to relieve stress,” said Laura Clements, a producer and performer. “Acting really helps create new characters, develop creativity and helps you become more sociable.”

Director Carolyn Gomes-Vieira added that experience of theatre classes can be truly transformative when students begin to discover and nurture the “leader within themselves,” improving their communication and public speaking skills.