A great play always contains a few surprises, but MHS sophomore Adam Thomas gave his parents an extra surprise during the presentation of West Side Story Friday, April 15, in the school theatre. Unbeknownst to Joni and Greg Thomas, Adam was cast in one of the leading roles.
Adam explained West Side Story was his dad’s favorite play. “He loves this musical and knows all the songs. I thought it would be really cool to surprise him by being in it.”
Adam’s role slowly evolved as practices continued. He started out on the lighting crew, but one day he filled in for an absent actor and was hooked. Later, when that same role came open, he took it over permanently without informing his parents.
Adam’s sister, Megan, who was a star on the stage during her years at MHS, was instrumental in keeping the secret from Joni and Greg. “I would come home on weekends and we’d go out in the shed and practice his lines,” she said.
His mother admits they were a little confused at times, but passed things off as oversights. “Early on his name was listed as an actor, but then it was never mentioned again. When I got my program, I flipped it to the back side and noticed his name was not listed under the lighting crew. Then, when we found our seats and I had a chance to read it, I saw his name listed as an actor and thought it must be a mistake.” Imagine their surprise when the curtain was raised and Adam jumped out on stage in the first scene and stayed there for much of the play.
Adam will take the stage tonight at 7:30 for the final presentation of West Side Story. Tickets will be sold at the door, adults $5 and students $3.
Staff Writer
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