This year, for the theatre department’s annual spring play, theater teacher Caleb Francis decided to stray away from the typical comedy show and rather choose a more dramatic and historical piece, “Girls in the Boat,” which will be performed tonight, tomorrow and Saturday in the Black Box.

“The kids had specifically asked to do a dramatic piece,” Francis said. “So I thought this would be a perfect opportunity.”

“Girls in the Boat” is inspired by the true story of the U.S. women’s Olympic rowing team and their fight against the prejudice and discrimination they faced in women’s sports. Francis says that this show is about the creation of Title IX, a civil rights law regarding equality of sexes in schools, educational programs and activities that receive funding from the federal government. Throughout the play, personal stories of some of the girls on the team are shared, showing their background and journey to the Olympics.

Due to scheduling constraints and the goal of completing the performances before spring break, Francis and the students had only about two months to prepare for the show. Students didn’t have much extra character work due to the fact that the characters are set in stone.

“I think, at least for me, it’s really easy to get into … ,” senior Lizzie Forrester said. “My character is like the captain of the crew team, and I’m already the president of the thespian troupe, so I’m already in a leadership role, so I know what it’s like.”

As the performances approach, some actors are experiencing nervousness, while others feel confident and excited about taking the stage. Despite recent illnesses affecting some participants, many emphasize the strong sense of community and support among everyone involved in the show.

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