By Mackenzie Dysinger

Plunge into a hysterical world of espionage, secrets, and drama in the new production of “Get Smart,” a play by Christopher Sergel put on by the Glennallen High School theatre classes. Brady Cyr, a senior at Glennallen High School (GHS), stars as Maxwell Smart, a secret agent working for a government counter-espionage agency known as CONTROL. Smart and his lovely and admiring assistant, Agent 99, played by Brynna Gerlach, are tasked with thwarting the vile plans of an evil international organization known as KAOS. 

The production features a mysterious villain named Mr. Big, performed by Raejin Simeon, and one of his KAOS henchmen, Garth, played by Nehemiah Somers. There are mysterious kidnappings, a princess in need of protection, super-tech spy gadgets, plenty of intrigue, and even more laughter in this comedic play.  When a handful of cast members were asked who would best enjoy this production, the unanimous answer was everyone! From kids to adults, “Get Smart” offers an evening of entertainment that the whole family can enjoy. 

Under the instruction of director Misty Rude, theatre one and theatre two students have been working diligently on this semester's play. Director Rude praised her cast and crew as being fully engaged and communicating well in the mere six weeks they had to put on the production. From first-time actors to long-time veterans, the cast boasts a variety of skills and experience.  

A play, however, is composed of more than just actors. Stage manager Clarinda Bell will be calling the show with the help of assistant stage manager Ambrosia Wood.  Just a few of the stage manager roles include: cueing actor entrances, communicating with the light and sound crew, and helping with scene changes. 

Every cast member participating in “Get Smart” is involved in crew responsibilities to varying degrees. Due to the remote location of Glennallen High School, students have the opportunity to use their creativity when it comes to set and costume design. Not only do students recycle equipment from previous plays, but they also benefit from the generosity of the community and local thrift stores, such as New to You and the Copper Basin Pregnancy Center.

Brynna Gerlach, an Upstream Learning student, enjoys that theatre allows her the opportunity to extend her friend group, while others agree it has improved both their confidence and public speaking skills.  Ellijah Neeley, who stars in the role of Chief, says that theatre allows him to continue pursuing his dream of working in the film industry. 

Although the rewards of theatre may vary from student to student, it is evident that director Rude and her cast have built a community based on trust, friendship, and of course—drama! The Glennallen High School theatre has put on several fantastic plays, but this humorous production may surpass them all. The play will only be running for three nights, November 11th, 12th, and 15th at 6:30 p.m in the GHS auditorium. Admission for the play is free, but donations are encouraged so that students in years to come may also benefit from the joy and community theatre brings.