Almond Acres Charter Academy Performed an original adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s famous novel, Treasure Island, written by drama teacher Amanda Thayer, and directed by Claire Edmunds. The performances were held February 2nd through the 11th, 2024, to enthusiastic crowds.
Thayer in her first year as the drama teacher at Almond Acres, was inspired by her love of adapting literary classics and her obsession with pirates. Thayer enriched the action with mermaids and sword fights, to resonate with the interests of her middle schoolers, ensuring collaborative student engagement throughout her writing process.
Thayer conceived the idea for the play in August 2023, and began writing the script for a spring 2024 production. Auditions took place in October, followed by a full read-through with the cast in December. With just three weeks of rehearsal time, the students brought the play to life. Thayer's personal favorite part of the show, the mutiny scene, epitomized the dedication and talent of the young actors.
Overall, Thayer felt that the show went great! Her favorite outcome of the show was the students' response to getting to work in a professional theatre with a professional team. The cast has also talked about how wonderful it was to make new friends and how excited they all are to do the play next year.
Cast members interviewed were Amelia Baker and Blake Tellian who shared that they like seeing the finished result of putting on a show. Amelia stated that her favorite part of theatre is hanging out with friends, whereas Blake shared she likes performing and wearing fun costumes.
Amelia and Blake were asked what words of wisdom they’d offer to anyone interested in theatre. Blake suggested, “If you’re scared to be on stage, just go for it. I tried it and now I love theatre!” Amelia followed by stating, “It’s a good life experience to perform in front of an audience, and it will help you in the future.”
Beyond the stage, the Templeton Performing Arts Center lobby underwent a dramatic pirate-themed makeover. Utilizing a mix of Halloween decorations and donations, a team of parent and teacher volunteers brought the ambiance of the Pirates of the Caribbean ride to life. This set the stage for an immersive theatrical experience for all attendees.
According to Amy Baker, the founder and program director for Almond Acres Charter Academy, “The drama program serves as an enriching addition to the community school, providing students with opportunities to showcase their talents and passions in non-traditional ways.” She emphasized the importance of arts education, highlighting its role as a key component of the school curriculum. “By exposing students to drama, the program taps into multiple intelligences, catering to diverse learning styles and interests. The school community recognizes the value of embracing the arts as a means of fostering creativity, expression, and personal growth among students.”
Finally, Baker expressed her appreciation for the partnerships she’s fostered between Almond Acres Charter Academy, the Paso Robles Youth Arts Center, and the Templeton Performing Arts Center. “Performing Treasure Island at the Templeton PAC, has taken our show to the next level,” Baker shared, “and the kids were excited to showcase their talents on a real stage in a real auditorium. It’s a true blessing.”
