Jefferson City High School will bring several large personalities to life during its spring production this week.
"You Can't Take It with You" is a 1936 comedy that centers around a family with several over-the-top personalities. Between a whirlwind engagement, an awkward family dinner and tax evasion, humor is bound to ensue.
Drama teacher Zachary McKinney said he is excited to see the high- schoolers interpret a production written nearly a century ago. The production is different from the usual popular productions he has selected in the past, and it contains eye-catching props like fireworks and live snakes.
"There are other elements, like we have some fun personalities that we haven't really gotten to see on stage, like a big booming dance instructor from Russia," McKinney said. "All of these personalities in the show make it different from any other show."
Cadie Logston, a senior at JCHS, said she can relate to her character, the bubbly mother, as she holds similar mannerisms. She added the most challenging part for her is simply staying in character since the production has several hilarious moments.
Between the character and simply acting alongside her friends - whom she considers family - Logston said this production is her favorite.
"I've been looking back on it, and I'm grateful this is the show that I can end my high school career with," she said. "This role and this production is going to hold a special place in my heart."
Josh Luetjen, a JCHS senior, said he enjoys acting as someone who is the complete opposite of himself. Luetjen plays the wise, laidback grandpa in the production, but the high school student said he personally worries about everything.
"It's really cool to see someone who has it all figured out, especially during a time in our lives when we're trying to figure everything out," he said.
Audience members may notice the spring show is in a different location this year. Instead of being at Miller Performing Arts Center, "You Can't Take It with You" will take place in the high school's Black Box Theatre, 609 Union St.
JCHS will perform the production at 7 p.m. Friday and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday. Tickets cost $5 and are limited due to COVID-19 restrictions. Those interested in purchasing tickets can email [email protected].
All patrons must wear masks.
"I look forward to closing out the school year with a bang, literally," McKinney said with a laugh.