Read the Summer 2013 Issue! - Father Ryan High School

has delegated responsibilities like make-up, costumes, set
construction and even directing to her students, some of whom
are more interested in behind-the-curtain action and might not
otherwise have joined the theatre program.
“The program has become a true cross-section in
participation,” says McClendon. Football players, Student
Council members, swimmers, cheerleaders and band members
have all participated in theatre. That’s how she chooses the
shows, with inclusivity in mind.
It’s not tough to see why theatre is such a retreat for hundreds
of Father Ryan students. And while she aims to have a polished
and profitable show, as a teacher, she wants to prepare her
students for life after high school. “When they go out into the
real world, having these experiences under their belts makes
the transition a little easier,” she says.
Father Ryan’s theatre
program has allowed
many to find their own
niche in high school.
Father Ryan’s theatre program has allowed many to find their
own niche in high school. Some go so far as to call it a family.
That experience has inspired a number of students to pursue
careers in the arts, like Shaun Hart ’05, Jessica Giannone ’05,
Allison Calhoun ’05, Katie Conway ’04, Patrick Benneyworth
‘04 and Lisa Duke ’07.
From Cinderella to Midsummer Night’s Dream to Godspell,
the Purple Masque Players has performed a wide range of
shows from the popular to the more obscure. One consistent
theme has been each show’s positive message. “The kind of
stories I like are ones of unconditional and supportive love, and
that’s the environment we’re trying to foster—a supportive,
artistic environment. That’s what the ‘known and loved’ aspect
of Father Ryan is all about,” says McClendon.
With the popularity of the theatre program, it seems there is
no stopping the growing talent pool that Father Ryan produces
each year.
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