SAHS students to perform classic British farce

South Aiken High School student Nick Breakiron is participating in his first stage play, "Blithe Spirit," which debuts at the school auditorium tonight at 7 p.m.

"It's the hardest thing I've ever done," he said with a smile. "But it's fun."

The British comedy, written by Noel Coward, also will be performed Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students and seniors and will be available at the door.

The students have been working on the production since mid-October, and "there have been a lot of blood, sweat and tears and sheer exhaustion," said teacher and director Ramona Parsons. "But when you empower them, they do amazing things."

The play is about a couple, Charles and Ruth Condomine, who host a seance in their home, said stage manager Annie Marie Hall. Somehow, the medium conjures up Charles' late first wife, Elvira, who can be seen by Charles but not Ruth.

Victoria Varnedoe portrays Elvira, who she said is very playful and pretty. But she hates not to get what she wants, which is to make a mess of things, said Kylie Burkes, who plays Ruth.

"I like my role, and I'm very excited," said Burkes. "This is the biggest part I've ever had, and it's been a fun experience getting to know my character. It's a fun part, as she doesn't have much substance and is a stick in the mud."

Parsons also praised the backstage crew, which has provided a real set that offers genuine illusion. They had to do research on the items that fit the period. The entire cast and crew had to develop trust-building during the process, Hall said.

"Austin Hallman has been a big help," she said. "He does the lights, put up the walls, helped with wardrobe and has done a lot all-around."

The PTO has also worked hard to enhance the stage, Parsons said. UPS Custom Brokerage employees came in over the summer to make some repairs, and Gregory Electric got the lighting system up. The PTO provided the funds for that project.

Principal Bryan Skipper "has been working to get the fine arts program going again," said Parsons. "This is the beginning of it."

Contact Rob Novit at rnovit@aikenstandard.com.