When our script writers, ages 10-14, gathered for the first time this winter, they took inspiration from this year’s theme of possibility, and understood that their original tale could be about any character, in any setting, during any time period. While this could have been overwhelming, it was also an exciting challenge.

“When I think about it, isn't every story, in the history of humanity, about overcoming what once seemed impossible?” One student mused.

Thus, the brainstorming began, as the students explored a variety of concepts, character arcs, and plot lines, until they decided to try a new style of story-telling, one driven more by the developmental and internal journey of the characters, rather than one where events and external conflicts propel the narrative forward. To achieve this, they decided to challenge themselves with something that had never done before in the history of Studio Players productions: to write a play that takes place in one setting. This turned the conversation into a study of human motivation, desire, and conflict.

“Basically, we all go through life with a lot of junk!” One student remarked.

“What if the play took place in a junkyard?” Another chimed in.

“And what if the junkyard wasn’t just filled with discarded belongings, but lost dreams, dashed hopes, old memories and fears?” A third posed.

Aha! Excited and inspired, the group started typing away, writing an original story where a junkyard, once symbolizing decay and abandonment, transformed into a nexus of connection, healing, and understanding.

Now, having a clear vision for the story, it was time to begin thinking about casting. The middle schoolers and their teachers came together to reflect on what kind of role each student was ready for this year and what they were seeking to develop as actors in this production.

“This was my first play I’ve ever been in, so just getting on stage was both thrilling and scary. I chose to be part of the junkyard so that I could be part of the action without having too many lines. It was fun!” - Student (age 10)

Together, the group evaluated what would be best for each individual, the ensemble, and the production as a whole. The right roles for each student emerged. The writers were thrilled, as they could now finish editing the script, knowing who was going to play each character.

“Last year, I had taken on a role that had a lot of sophisticated language but was more one dimensional. This year, I sought a role that was more emotionally complex because throughout the story, she conveyed both regret and hope. I was ready to take on that challenge.” - Student (age 13)

With each day and new idea, excitement grew as the students self-selected into committees to take on the various aspects of bringing the production to life. They poured their creativity into selecting songs, writing lyrics, designing the set, costumes, props, and lighting. An incredible evolution unfolded as our Gym was once again transformed into a theater. Slowly the students began to see how every element they created was essential to conveying the story they wrote and the overall vision of their production.

“Let me tell you, it’s not easy to work in a committee. There were five of us in our group, and sometimes we all had strong ideas, and other times, we all felt stuck and unsure. It required us to talk, listen to one another, ask questions, and sometimes take a break and come back to brainstorming. It was amazing though to hold the final poster and program in our hands and see how all of the decisions we made along the way added up to something beautiful.” - Student (age 12)

It was magical to see all of the elements enhance one another and come together. In rehearsals, as students developed their characters, momentum grew within the group. Behind the scenes, they helped each other learn their lines, try new blocking, and encouraged one another to persist through challenges. On stage, they evolved from students into actors of an ensemble, relating to each other with authenticity and emotion, and a deep respect for the importance of every single person's part in contributing to the production as a whole.

“I am really proud of all of our work in the play this year. It was a lot to learn our lines, remember the blocking for each scene, rehearse the songs, and truly transform into characters that were so different from ourselves. I remember looking out into the audience on opening night and seeing my family members cry as I finished singing my duet. That was a moment I’ll never forget.” - Student (age 12)

The audience laughed, cried, and joined in song as they were transported to the bustling junkyard and affected by the stories of growth, change, loss, and connection that unfolded. It was a phenomenal production and a joy for our whole community to come to the junkyard to experience it!

“It was quite moving, as one of the teachers guiding this experience, to see how through the process the whole group came together as a cast to support and encourage each other’s growth. Each person’s commitment, along with the collective dedication, propelled each actor to overcome challenges and emerge with greater confidence. Experiencing this kind of growth makes it real that anything is possible.” - Teacher