Behind the Scenes: Gold in the Bones

As I walked into the auditorium the Monday before Gold in the Bones was to open, the first thing I noticed were the tons of tools, nails and wood laying around. The set crew was busy at work building the various pieces for the Children’s Show; Gold in the Bones.

It was about 5:30 and I asked one of the crew members how long they had been here: they say they’ve been working since after school and they won’t leave until around ten. That is some serious dedication. Carson Lewis, who is set head, really enjoys being on set. “Set is something I am good at and it is fun” he said.

Around 5:45 the actors trickle in and are told by Assistant Director Abby Taylor to head to the Green room and get dressed in their costumes. Today they will run through all three plays. “It is a little stressful but it is going to come together,” said Taylor about the play.
The actors and actresses have worked really hard to memorize their lines and have a lot of fun doing it. Theater is a fantastic voyage and a blast,” said sophomore actor Noah Gehrmann.

Director Mr. Chew is proud of what the actors have done, but also of what the people behind the stage have done. They turn simple things into magnificent pieces of art. “Some of the most innovative people I’ve ever met have worked together here to turn 600 square feet into a magic space that can go anywhere in time, space, or even fantastic places we make real through believing” said Chew.

Gold in the Bones is not just one play, but three interrelated short plays. All the plays have to deal with pirates, ghost and other things of that nature. “I would describe it as three stories tied together with themes of greed, ghost and gold,” said sophomore Taylor.

Mr. Chew is the director of Gold in the Bones. He has been directing at UHS for 35 years and is retiring this year. He has never repeated a show and has been a great director to so many kids. “Thirty five years is a lot of plays and musicals, but even more, I’ve been able to create with so many wonderful people” said Chew.

Mr. Chew is not sure what he will do after he retires. “It’s hard to say what the future holds, but I want to support the future success of our school’s program in any way I can” said Chew.

The play will open Thursday, February 4 at 7:00 in the auditorium. The rest of the show dates are February 5, 6, 12 and 13 at the same time. Tickets are $6 and can be bought at the door or from a cast member.