SLHS to perform 'Twelve Angry Jurors'

Wed, Nov 4, 2009    to del.icio.us

Students at Spring Lake High School will present the play, "Twelve Angry Jurors," at 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

The play, written by Sherman Sergel, is about 12 jurors who must decide the fate of a young man accused of killing his father. After an immediate vote, the jury stands at 11-1 in favor of conviction and must further dliberate on the case. During the jury's discussion, prejudices come to light, as well as a lack of concern for human life — no matter the human's race, class, or status in the community.

The play was originally written by Reginald Rose in 1954 as a teleplay titled, "Twelve Angry Men," and later made into a movie staring Henry Fonda. Since then, women have been allowed in the jury, thus changing the name to "Twelve Angry Jurors."

"Twelve Angry Jurors" delivers strong themes, including racism, class struggle and the power of one voice.

The 35-person cast for the Spring Lake production, including technical crew, discussed the nuances of being on a jury with Ottawa County Circuit Chief Judge Ed Post.

"This is going to be one of the most powerful pieces we've done on the Spring Lake stage — right up there with Anne Frank," said David Theune, the show's director.

Students in the play include: Nick Rice, Emily Roberge, Joe Sample, Devon Olrich, Lisa Johnson, Jack Newsed, Clara Richter, Gert Wallis and Tara Johnson. The play's technical crew includes: Cody Krause, stage manager; Alex Donnelly and Brianna Sprague, assistant stage managers; Trevor Epplett, lights; and Alex Sinn, sound.

For more information or to purchse tickets, call the SLHS office at 846-5501. Tickets will also be sold at the door.