Photos courtesy of the Wantagh School District
The fall drama production will be a new show on the Wantagh High School stage, as student-actors are getting ready for the upcoming production of “Radium Girls,” which will feature four performances from Nov. 18 to 20.
Director Dr. Kimberly Davis said she chose the dramatic show to highlight the acting talents of her thespians. The cast of 28 includes freshmen through seniors, along with a crew of nearly 20 students working on sets, costumes, audio and lighting.
Trinity Bokelmann, as Grace, and Anthony Lerro, as Arthur, are the lead actors.
“Radium Girls” is based on a true story about girls who worked in a watch factory painting dials with radium paint, before the dangers were known. Lead actors include Trinity Bokelmann as Grace Fryer, Abigail Ardelean as Kathryn Schaub, Nicole Tobia as Irene Rudolph, Anthony Lerro as Arthur Roeder and Kristien Koppe taking on two roles as C.B. “Charlie” and William J.A. Baker.
“It’s so dramatic and you get to really act,” said Anthony, who described his character as the main antagonist, but less evil than some other characters. “There’s yelling, there’s crying, there’s a lot to work with. Everyone in the audience is going to have very strong feelings about every character.”
Emma Nicholas is cast as Sob Sister and Hunter Fasano plays a reporter.
Trinity said her character, Grace, is the main protagonist and very complex – responsible and independent but also naïve and shy. Her character has a very important message about looking out for one’s own happiness.
Nicole, who portrays Irene, also works in the factory and is funny, self-assured and speaks her mind, but meets an untimely demise. Having been a part of several musical productions in Wantagh, Nicole is excited to have a lead role in a more traditional play and really develop her acting skills.
The third member of the group, Kathryn, is very emotional but genuinely a good person and always tries to do what’s right, explained Abigail, the actor who portrays her.
The show is based on a true story about girls who painted watch dials in a factory with radium paint.
In addition to Dr. Davis, the show is supported by Austin Costello, stage crew and technical director; Courtney Prestianni, business manager; Emma Nicholas, assistant to the director; and Maylani Lee, stage manager. Artwork for the program and promotional posters were designed by students Abigail Ardelean and Sadie Merting.
Show times are Friday, Nov. 18 at 7 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 19 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 20 at 1 p.m. in the Wantagh High School auditorium. For tickets, visit www.seatyourself.biz/wantaghms.
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