CCHS Drama sets the stage for ‘Game of Tiaras’

By Travis Fischer, tkfischer@charlescitypress.com

There will be traitorous turns and terrible tragedy this weekend at the Charles Theater as the Charles City High School Drama Department presents “Game of Tiaras.”

Premiering at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 4, followed by a second performance on Saturday at 2 p.m., the comedic high school play combines the tragedy of a Shakespearean story with fairy tale princesses who are legally distinct from popular copyrighted adaptations.

“When it came time to pick a show, I knew I wanted to stick with comedy,” said director Erika Joiner. “I stumbled upon ‘Game of Tiaras’ and knew this was the one. It’s been such a fun experience and I think the kids have all had fun growing into their characters.”

“Game of Tiaras” features the acting talents of Savannah Baldus, Alexia Clark, Blake Dean, Kati Haglund, Blake Hoeft, Camryn Hoeft, Karina Ibarra, Jacob Jones, Sean Jones, Rylie Keyes, Adeline King, Norah Massawe, Gracie Opp, Kylie Pickar, Melanie Rivera, Nyssa Salinas, Katie Soifer, Destiny Squier, Ana Tutu and a special appearance by AJ Weber.

Behind the scenes, Addison Tracey is the play’s stage manager, assisted by Natalie Keyes. Jenna Aikey and Jojo Ibarra are on lights while Braelynn Painter and Athena Dittmer are on sound. Hair and makeup is managed by Lynn Bauer with Lisa Ryan, Sabrina Willsher, Kayla Streich, Bobbie Soifer, Jo Schoeneman and Aurora Babbitt.

Along with the cast and crew, Joiner says that the production has benefited from a significant amount of outside help.

“We had three different wood shop classes at the high school build our set,” said Joiner. “Jesse White, the industrial technology teacher, delivered it to us. It’s been great having a group of students take on that task.”

The cast has also received some assistance with the costumes.

“Mara Bridal donated dresses for our Cinderella, Belle and Snow Queen,” said Joiner. “Each of those characters were dressed up with gowns, jewelry and tiaras. We are so grateful for Tiffany Rottinghaus and the staff at Mara.”

With just a few days left before the curtain rises, the cast and crew are working hard to make sure the sets are up and the lines are learned before the Friday premiere.

“This show has been such a joy to work on,” said Joiner. “We can’t wait for the community to see what the students have been working on.”