Student actors in Mohawk have been busily preparing for the club’s spring performance, making sure the final dance steps are down and the last lines are memorized.
The Mohawk Central School Drama Club will be performing “Guys and Dolls,” a musical, on March 6, 7 and 8 at 7:30 p.m. in the Gregory B. Jarvis High School auditorium, but the performances will be unique for a couple of reasons.
First, the play is being directed by a father-son duo, William Van Patten, who is serving as music director of the play and his son Chris, a student at the school, who is serving as director.
“I’m doing everything from helping with acting to designing the sets and offering encouragement,” said Chris Van Patten.
William Van Patten is a music instructor at West Canada Valley Central School. They believe this collaboration is the first ever in the Mohawk Valley on a school stage.
Chris Van Patten has been involved with several performances through the years, including 13 musicals, but this is his first opportunity at directing a play and having his finger on the pulse of each of the play’s phases.
“I think this will be the biggest rush I’ve ever had really,” said Chris Van Patten. “I now have a bigger impact than acting.”
Chris Van Patten is using the play as a springboard for his future, he is planning on majoring in theater production in college.
Another unique trait of this play is the size, there are around 45 students participating who have been practicing non-stop since winter break ended.
“It’s a big play, there are many people involved,” said Chris Van Patten, who figured the play runs around two hours.
From his spot as director, Chris Van Patten can see the improvement the club members have made in the last two years.
“This is going to be one of the best shows Mohawk has put on. I think we really stepped it up,” added Chris Van Patten.
Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students and senior citizens. Tickets can be pre-ordered by calling 235-3631.
Mohawk, N.Y. —
