Shaler Area High School is setting up for an unforgettable experience as it proudly presents “The Homecoming” for the fall play. Transporting the audience to the heart of the Great Depression, this production tells a story about a family’s relentless struggle for survival. Set against the backdrop of challenging times, the eldest son struggles with the responsibility of caring for his siblings while harboring a desire to become a writer.
The play is scheduled for performances on the Friday November 17 and two shows on the Saturday the 18th. Cast members with leading roles include Max Milligan, Josh Clark, and Emma Lombardozi.
What sets this production apart is not only its powerful storytelling but also the promise of innovative stagecraft. The set designers have introduced unique techniques including the periaktoi—a versatile set piece that can flip to reveal different scenes.
“As difficult as they were to figure out the math and layout for, I’m glad they finally came together. It was really a group effort to get everything together, from builders to the amazing artists that created the murals. I’m glad we made them to last many more shows to come,” junior Meghan O’Neill said.
The director, faculty, and students involved in the play are excited about presenting a story that not only reflects the historical struggles of the Great Depression but also explores themes of family, dreams, and resilience. This show has taken a lot of effort to accomplish everything director Anne Loudon has envisioned.
“Our biggest struggle was getting the set built and painted on time. We do not have a builder — as we have had in past years — so we had to rely on parent volunteers. We have to delay set construction each year to wait for the homecoming float building to be completed, so that means we have to get a great deal completed in very little time,” Mrs. Anne Loudon, director of the show, said.
As opening night approaches, the cast and crew are working to ensure that everything comes together and the play is something memorable.
So mark your calendars, secure your tickets, and get ready to be transported to the time of the Great Depression, where the struggles of a family mirror the resilience of the human spirit.
“I always look forward to curtain call — to see the cast and crew get recognized for all of their hard work, talent, and sacrifices. Putting on a quality show is painstaking, so hearing the applause and cheers from the audience and seeing the beaming smiles and happy tears of the students on stage is everything to me,” Mrs. Loudon said.
