‘Last Day of School’ dares East Union audiences

Morning announcements with a reporter who doesn’t care anymore. Delinquents lining up to see the principal. A boy who can’t climb the rope in gym without throwing up. A ton of secret crushes. A whole lot of the Baha Men.

All should be expected from “Last Day of School,” which will be performed by East Union’s drama department this week in two performances at 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 7 and Saturday, Nov. 8.

The show, organized by scene from first period, second period, third period and so on, has the clock ticking down on many students’ last day in the public education system. All of the angst associated with the day? Turned up to an 11.

The show is directed by Clarissa McCollough from a script written by Ian McWethy. Across students from grade six to high school seniors, the cast is pretty familiar with their roles.

“These kids have spent many early mornings and late nights together perfecting this show.” McCollough said. “Many of these students are adding drama to an already full plate. We started this journey in late August. The kids have persevered through cast changes, state athletic events, injuries, schedule challenges and then some.”

Taking place in Rochester High School, a renegade morning announcer tells students to do something bold or crazy on their last day. What follows are stories of crushes, nerves and a lot of laughs.

“Expect to be immersed in hallway drama, student/teacher meltdowns and last-chance awkward love stories,” McCollough said.

Included in the performance is a one-act play titled “The Last Bell,” created by the students and McCollough. The play takes place in the Rochester Middle School. As interest in East Union’s drama productions increases, McCollough wanted to keep opportunities available for young performers.

“I had more kids audition this year than I had parts for,” McCollough said. “I love that we have a drama and speech department that creates a community where everyone belongs and feels their voice matters.”

Tickets will be available for $5.

The full cast list includes:

Olivia Findley as Bethany, Aiden Denton as Dave, Wyatt Proffitt as Brian, Brock Driskill as Jared, Reese Guiter as Kassia, Riley Cheers as Emmie, Cyler Wuebker as Gordy and Gary, Lexi Hansen as Courtney, Gabe Lauffer as Aiden, Rebecca Young and Anne Denton as April, Carter Harper as Tom, Avery Cheers as Katie, Khloe Parker as Justine, Anthony Pantoja as Luke, Kyndal Williams as Nina, Josephine Friday as Madison and Dallas Harper as Avery.

Cast members who will participate in “The Last Bell” are Camden Clear, Charles Shawley, Zayett Clear, Zaylen Clear and Bentley Huntington. Brecklynn Driskill is a member of the stage crew.