CHARLEMONT — The winter production, “Trap,” by Stephen Gregg, is a play about a play – a change from traditional plays the Academy at Charlemont has presented in previous years.
The production is directed by Kimberly Overtree, a math teacher with a background in theater. Overtree chose the play in part because she hoped it would challenge students.
“It’s a modern, sort of avant-garde … it’s really minimalist,” Overtree said.
“Trap” is a mystery thriller about an incident in a theater, told by a cacophony of witnesses, lawyers and journalists. The play is an ensemble with dozens of roles, so everyone who auditioned landed a part, Overtree said.
“Everyone has an equal part, and that’s really refreshing,” Isadora Brenzier, who plays Norma Pike, said Wednesday.
Brenzier has performed in plays since elementary school, she said.
“I like to be someone different to who I am as a person,” Brenzier said. “It gives you that giddy feeling, to be someone different, and to work for so long on something so big.”
Among the more rewarding aspects of directing a student play is to witness students develop their self-confidence, Overtree said.
“It’s really hard to be a person in the world, especially when you’re young,” Overtree said. “Being in performing arts is a way you can really, really boost your self esteem.”
Lila Goleman, who plays Angela Lure, hopes to pursue acting in the future in some way.
“I’ve always loved being on stage and performing,” Goleman said. “It’s really nice to be another person for a second.”
The Academy presented “Trap” March 2, 3 and 8. The final performance will be held today at 2 p.m.
Reach Grace Bird at gbird@recorder.com or 413-772-0261, ext. 280.