COMMUNITY

UP IN THE BALCONY

By: Lawrence Harvey October 5, 2008

Seeing the notice for performers needed for Espresso Drama's holiday production got me to thinking about my own recent Espresso Drama experience. That which I am about to relate from...Up In The Balcony.
I had nothing particularly planned for that Saturday night, September 6th, so I decided to see a show. A live show. The admission was by donation, so it fit the budget. Plus there would be concessions so I would get to eat. A simple , relaxing evening was to be had.
The show was presented by the participants of Espresso Drama's Summer Theatre Institute. I was ready for a cute presentation by some talented youth. ''Cute'' is not the word for what took place. Amazing is the word.
To warm up the audience the artistic director recited ''Rindercella''. It was hilarious. Although I knew what he was saying, I am still impressed how he did it without a slip of words, let alone not cracking up himself.
From that point on the audience was treated to pantomimes, poetry, istrumental pantomimes, and more. Individuals presented solo fairy tales becoming a variety of characters as well as scenery and props. A group of young ladies presented a pantomimed nursery rhyme that was a little confusing. Until it was presented again with narration and the humor of the rhyme became clear. They planned it that way: To confuse, then to entertain.
After the intermission we were treated to a Sherlock Holmes inspired play. ''The Ms. Tery of the Star of Calcutta'' introduced us to Shirley Holmes and her good friend Dr. Joan Watson. It was a job well done.
The audience was small but attentive and appreciative of the performers. I personally enjoyed myself and feel it was an evening well spent. My only regret is that I never attended an Espresso Drama production in the past. Something I will now do whenever I can.
For anyone who has yet to attend one of their shows, I urge you to do so. Now for those of you who are wondering: No, I do not have a son, daughter, nor any family member connected with Espresso Drama. Their next production is ''A Christmas Carol ? ! '' , an adaptation of the Charles Dickens tale.
Up In The Balcony, this is Lawrence Harvey telling you to keep your eye on this youth theatre ensemble. Artistic director L. William King told me he considers Espresso Drama to be Pierce County's premire youth theatre ensemble. From what I saw, if it is not yet, it soon will be.