Mahone Bay Old School_A Life and Times_Bob Sayer

Dapper Del Dupperon and Drama
‘Del’ Dupperon was a character. One of those unique teachers that students fondly
remember. He was a gay [in the old sense of the word] bachelor. He was uninhibited
and dramatic and a poser. His English and social studies classes were popular. He was
an entertainer with style and lots of knowledge.
He immersed himself in student activities: yearbook adviser, coach of Reach For The
Top, but most all he was passionate about drama.
Mr. Dupperon and the 1970-71 Reach For The Top Team
Mr. Dupperon produced and directed lavish and ambitious productions that were of high
quality and drew large audiences. The quality of the staging and costuming alone are
reflected in the following photos. The Drama Club raised funds and organized the
Mardi Gras Night at Winter Carnival. Debbie Oickle was sent to a 1971 summer drama
workshop at Mount Allison.
Mr. Dupperon was at the school from 1968-1972. He left for personal reasons.
“It was a sad day for students, when Mr. Dupperon left.” Scott Ritchie’s comments are
typical. “Even the so called “bad” and “tough” paid attention to him and learned…Best
English teacher ever…fond, fond, memories…funny, could be outrageous…vain,
impeccably dressed” Debbie Oickle-Thompson went on to become a schoolteacher. She
described him as “a catalyst,” who inspired a life-long love of literature and drama.
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