Student-written plays hit the stage at Oilfields School this week.
Death, Deals and Dilemmas, a series of one-act plays, showcases the writing and directing chops of three senior drama students who took part in all aspects of producing their own play.
Drama teacher Pam Pracic said it's usually the teacher who decides what shows are being performed, but this time, students took the reins.
Warner Hodgins, in Grade 12, had the idea for The Kitchen Accomplice.
“It’s a dark comedy about a man inside a 1950’s TV ad,” Hodgins said.
With an interest in advertising and culture from different eras, he had the idea for a while, and the opportunity to write a play was the perfect time to bring it to life, he said.
Kimberly Balding, a Grade 10 student, wrote and directed Pile Up at Checkout 3.
The modern story features unique personalities brought together at the grocery store.
“It's about this character who goes into the grocery store just to grab a couple items,” Balding said. "But keeps meeting a bunch of people who keep slowing her down.”
Jessica Wall, also in Grade 10, wrote and directed One Hour Left.
Wall, a fan of horror stories, set the psychological thriller in a 1920’s asylum.
“It's about this man in an insane asylum, who is given one hour to do whatever he likes,” she said.
Pracic commended the students for putting their ideas out there.
"I'm super proud of the overall commitment, as well as the ability to showcase something that is very personal to them," she said.
Performances take place nightly at the school in Diamond Valley from May 29 to 31. Showtime is 7 p.m. and admission is $7.
With some mature themes, the plays are recommended for audience members who are 12 and up.