Staging a play in a virtual format is no easy task. But the Huntington High School drama club has every reason to be proud of its production of “The Diary of Anne Frank.”
The cast included Katherine Eichenberger (Otto Frank), Giada LoPorto (Anne Frank), Grace Allen (Edith Frank), Ariana James (Margot Frank), David Canas Granados (Peter Van Daan), Sarah Biernacki (Mrs. Van Daan), Ryan Aguirre (Mr. Van Daan), Lily Tierney (Jan Dussel), Lainey Carney (Mr. Kraler), Charlotte Simon (Miep Gies), Delia Caruso (officer), Landry Flynn (officer), Genesis Acevedo (officer) and Layna Abraham (narrator/stage directions.) Drew Spina was the student director of the play.
English teacher Michael Schwendemann is the drama club's faculty advisor.
“Considering we were all at home, I think the play was wonderful,” Ms. LoPorto said. “Not only did everyone do an amazing job, Mr. Schwendemann was great at making sure we did well and still enjoyed the social aspect of the club. I had a great time and hope to participate in many shows to come.”
The student actors worked very hard to master their parts in the production.
“It was challenging to act and stay present when you aren’t physically with your fellow actors,” Ms. Biernacki said. “But for such a young cast, I think we did an excellent job. I’m hoping in the spring we will be able to perform live outside, but we will have to see what the future holds.”
Faculty advisor Michael Schwendemann, who directed the play, said a long list of obstacles and daily challenges had to be overcome.
“Although it was a very different scene, I feel that the play was a huge success,” Mr. Aguirre said. “I think that the cast did a great job portraying Anne Frank and her story. It wouldn’t have been nearly as successful without the hours of work that Mr. and Mrs. Schwendemann put into the production. We were also able to get close, even though we weren’t physically together. I really enjoyed the show and I couldn’t have asked for a better last drama at the high school.”
Everyone associated with Huntington’s drama club is pleased with how the group rallied to surmount numerous and substantial obstacles.
“I think it went amazing,” said Mr. Spina, who as the student director worked closely with Mr. Schwendemann and the actors. “I am so proud of everyone that had a part in it. They all worked so hard.”