The Comedy of Errors

Cornflower enjoyed her Shakespeare Club this Spring and when the opportunity arose out of it to audition for a production of The Comedy of Errors, she decided to try out. Knowing that it might be a very short lived venture if she didn't get a part, she gave it her best. Fortunately Carolyn, who has a degree in theater and has performed in many plays herself, was our director and she taught the kids about auditioning as they went along.

Much to Cornflower's pleasure and initial trepidation, she won the role of Dromio of Ephesus, one of the two sets of twins. She diligently learned her lines and being the avid reader that she is, she was able to deliver them with wonderful use of expression. However, the physical aspects of acting were not as familiar to her and her articulate delivery didn't match with an initial stiffness on stage but over time and with the guidance of the director and opportunities to view video of her practices, Cornflower developed a new understanding and appreciation for how physical gesture and posture could enhance the delivery of her lines.

The children were given the amazing opportunity to perform their production at an actual local theater - The Theater on the Main! Their production worked with the existing set for a adult play which was running at the same time.

After a grueling tech week of practice, the children faced the additional challenge of the demise of the theater's AC system for their dress rehearsal and performances. Despite the heat, the young actors did an amazing job and Cornflower's Dromio was a great hit.

I don't know who was more surprised by her ability to get into the character and play it with such boldness, audibility, and fun - Cornflower or everybody else. It was a great first theater experience for Cornflower and I am grateful to our director Carolyn for making it possible and helping Cornflower to perform so well. Cornflower's dad is convinced that she has a natural talent for it and was so pleased that he has encouraged her to try out again if she would like.

Well...there is a production of Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew coming up....maybe....?