Drama? What’s it all about? When you think of Drama what comes to mind? Perhaps it could be Shakespeare, Samuel Beckett or even Tyler Perry. Have you ever considered participating in Pitman’s drama class? What was stopping you? A common response would be self-image and self-esteem. In this article, I’ve interviewed experienced individuals with performing arts backgrounds. 

When thinking about who to interview for drama I had no trouble. I knew I wanted to interview Allison Pannell. As long as I’ve known her she has always been very passionate about theater. I couldn’t wait to hear what she had to say. My first interviewee was Allison Pannell. She has been performing since she was young and has been in several productions. She attends Pitman and as of this year, is a Sophomore. A talent of hers is being vocally gifted. 

What made you wanna do Drama? 

“I don’t know, I’ve been doing it since I was really young and I sort of would start doing the school plays they would do and I just really connected with it and had fun on stage.”

What is your favorite part of production?

“My favorite part of production would definitely be just getting to know the cast that you’re working with because you form really close friendships with everybody and it’s like a bond that lasts forever basically.”

How would you describe your day when preparing for a play?

“Oohh so when I’m preparing for a play I usually like i definitely like to rest a lot because I’m always worried somethings gonna happen and it’s gonna jeopardize the performance, but it’s just kind of like focusing and definitely staying grounded.”

Do you ever feel embarrassed in Drama? 

“No, honestly I think that’s the best part about it is that you kind of learn to get rid of that first hand embarrassment for yourself because everyone is sort of showing a vulnerable side of themselves and you kind of get to see that we’re all just people trying to you know make something out of the art of performing.” 

Has Drama made you more confident? 

“I’d say it definitely has i think it def makes a lot of people more confident because it makes a lot of people come out of their comfort zone

Do you want to make a career out of Drama? 

I think I do I definitely  want to pursue performing arts in my future sometimes. It’s definitely the thing I’m most passionate about.”

Has self-image ever stopped you from being yourself in Drama? 

“I think that self-image can def make me overthink and hold back, but then i sort of remember that if i want to pursue this for the rest of my highschool career and if i want to pursue this for my actual career then i’m gonna have to put 100% of myself out there because 90% wont impress people as much.”

Allison touched on internal conflict with self-image and esteem, that I feel many people could relate to. Hopefully after hearing about Allisons experiences you are able to be more inspired to try out drama or just put yourself out there in general. I felt as though that was important because many people can relate with it. 

After interviewing Allison Pannell about her personal drama experience, I went and spoke with the drama teacher, Mr. Norris, himself about his personal experience being involved with the students and the drama department. He spoke about his being a Pitman High Alumni and student as well as his passion for performing arts. 

Why did you want to teach drama? 

“I am a Pitman Alumni and was a Pitman High student, I was very involved in the Theatre Department. I found a passion for performing arts, both on  stage and back stage and this led me down a path toward studying Acting & Directing in college. After graduating I started working toward a career in Theatre Education and soon after saw the opening here at Pitman for a new Drama Teacher. I applied, interviewed and was lucky enough to get the job! The best part is my Drama Teacher who taught me what I know (Mrs. McBay) is now my mentor and she helps me daily as I learn how to do this job as well as she did.” 

What is your favorite part of drama?  

“My favorite part of Drama as a participant is diving into new characters and bringing them to life on stage. My favorite part of Drama as an Instructor and Director is seeing my students build their confidence and hone in on their performing skills.”

What is the hardest part of preparing for a production?  

“There are many challenging aspects to mounting a production, like balancing everyone’s schedules to plan the rehearsal calendar, but the most challenging part would be the casting process. We have so many talented students in Pitman Drama and it is always a challenge to build one cast from the countless possible options.”

Have you seen students’ confidence grow whilst being in drama?  

“Yes, I get to see this daily! Whether my students are in Beginning Drama to fulfill a graduation requirement or they are repeat students of Advanced Drama, all my students work on their existing performance skills and are challenged to continue to progress. In my class we practice getting in front of the class and performing on stage almost every day; as a result, I get to see my students expand in Public Speaking and Advanced Level Acting constantly. It’s the best part of my job!”

Mr. Norris spoke on how he basically had his own full circle moment. He is a prime example of dedication and support.