“The key to a good performance is staying in character.  If they (actors) break character with a laugh or smile, it ruins the scene,” said Drama Director Mrs. Elizabeth Thomas.

With controlled expressions, all

actors on stage focus on staying in character as they practice for the spring play “Papa Was a Preacher”.

 The performance debut of the play will be March 25 at 7 p.m. with additional performances March 26 – 27 at 7 p.m.

“Papa Was a Preacher” enables its audience to experience a place in a pastor’s family.  The main cast is Edwin Porter “Papa” (Anthony Valenzuela, junior), Pearl Porter “Mama” (Tammy Huynh, junior), and the six children from oldest to youngest Hugh, Cecil, Raybon, Janette, Edd, and Alyene.

 Because of Mr. Porter’s occupation as a clergyman, many people, including the infamous Miss Jonas (Carolyn Hua, eighth grade), have high expectations for the family.

The youngest Porters, Edd (Michael Tadros, seventh grade) and Alyene (Minh-Thu Che, eighth grade) have expectations of their own concerning Miss Jonas.

Small family problems involving a girl cause a stir in the Porter family between Cecil (Zachary Richards, junior), and Raybon (David Jenkins, senior).

 A precious “trumpeter” also snags the heart of the eldest girl Janette (Kristine Tran, eighth grade) and results in headaches for the rest of the family. 

In the midst of the these problems, the eldest Porter, Hugh (Kevin Trinh, sophomore), visits his family for a special event.

            The Porters are certain to capture the hearts of their audience as they discover together the true importance of family.