The stage is set for Dakota Valley’s fall play, “Twelve Angry Jurors”. The three-act drama is based on the popular television series “12 Angry Men” by Reginald Rose. Set in a modern-day courtroom, twelve frustrated jurors try to decide if young man is guilty of murdering his father. The entire cast consists of only 14 actors, several of whom have never been on stage before.

 Meghan Schenk, a freshman at Dakota Valley, is acting for the first time.

 “The play sounded like a lot of fun and I’ve always wanted to do it,” said Schenk, who plays the sensible Jury Foreman.

Jacob Vogts, a senior at the high school, is one of the few experienced cast members. Vogts has been in the fall play since his freshman year. He plays the opinionated Juror Number Three.

“It’s a smaller cast and half of them are new actors,” said Vogts. “The play itself is shorter, but it’s not as physical. It’s more wordy.”

Director Anna Michaelson chose the play because of its modern setting and dynamic character roles.  Michaelson believes perfecting the character’s personalities will be a challenge, especially for the new actors, but hopes it will be a great learning experience.

“This play is definitely more character-driven,” said Michaelson. “It’s more of an ensemble piece. Everyone will have to come together as a team.”

The cast has practice every morning from 6:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. in the high school auditorium. Both Schenk and Vogts admit the practices are early, but know their hard work will pay off in the end. “Twelve Angry Jurors” opens at November 11 and 12 at Dakota Valley High School.