“A Tragedy” at Lincoln High School



On May 18th, during 10th period, the play “The Tragedy” was performed in Abraham Lincoln High School’s auditorium.

About twenty students performed in this dramatic production dealing with the issue of racism. Directed by Ms. Erica Swift, the play was created by the students in her drama class. The inspiration for the production of this play began when another teacher and class sponsor from Lincoln High School, Ms. Sargent, asked Ms.Swift if she could do a play promoting non-violence. As the idea of that progressed, both Ms.Swift and her students agreed with Ms. Sargent.

Before the play began, the students clearly had mixed emotions about performing. “It’s scary and I get nervous,” said sophomore Valerie Lopez who was a Latina gang member in the play. Heather Marshall, who is also a sophomore, said she was unsure of how she felt: “I don’t know, I’m kind of in between emotions,” she said. Despite her students' initial discomfort, Ms. Swift never lost confidence in the performers. She had no doubt about the performers even considering backing out of the play. “They’re committed and excited to see the outcome”, she said.

Between the morning and the beginning of 10th period on the day of the play, Ms. Swift and her students worked together to make sure the play would succeed. Right before the performance, they made the final touches on the stage, which included setting up each scene, and looking at the script one last time.

As the members of the audience began to usher into the auditorium, most of them tried to get the best seats. Some were excited when they got a good seat while others were disappointed when they had to sit in the back. Once the doors were closed and everyone in the audience took a seat, the play began.

The opening scene began with an argument between two girls. Meanwhile, some of the audience was frustrated because they could not hear the actors. Some audience members recognized the performers and yelled out their names. However, the performers were not distracted. They were flawless with their lines and remained calm as the audience got quiet.

As the play ended, the audience members seemed satisfied. ”I really liked it,” said 12th grader Kasia Augustyn when she was asked how she felt about the play. “It was good,” said 11th grader Edline Eloi after the play ended.

After the end of the play when the performers were introduced, they were quick to share their feelings among one another and joined in taking a few pictures as well.

As the audience members were leaving, Ms.Swift had a big smile on her face. It was clear that her play was a success and she was very proud of her students.

As the performers were getting ready to leave, their feelings about the play changed immediately. When the performers in the play were asked how they felt on stage, they all responded confidently. “It was good, all eyes were on me,” said 11th grader Robert Banks who was Julius, one of the main characters in the play. An 11th grader, Katherine Sanchez, who was also one of the main characters responded, “It felt good”.