CONNEAUT — February is often known for cabin fever but not one case of it can be found at Conneaut High School. Students have been offered many opportunities to get involved and to be entertained. Students worked hard for Conneaut’s first year participating in the Polar Bear Plunge and are gearing up for the semi-annual drama production.
The bravest of Conneaut High School made their first appearance at the Polar Bear Plunge on Feb. 27. The event was brought to Conneaut High School by the School Pride Committee led by Stephanie Burnett. Many eager students raised money for the event which benefits The Special Olympics. Plungers sold polar bear sponsor cards which were displayed on the windows of the front office with the sponsor’s name. Each bear cost $1. Participating students also raised money independently.
Senior Cody Bennett prepared for the event for several months. “Every day I walked to school wearing shorts. I haven’t worn long pants in approximately eight months. This helped me acclimate to the weather,” he said. “I also grew out my beard in preparation for the event.”
Bennett also had a strategy planned out prior to the event. “My strategy was to run as fast as I could into the water so that I wouldn’t chicken out. I also wore a Spartan foam finger so that everyone would know I was from Conneaut,” Bennett said.
He raised $100 on his own. Bennett said after the event his only thought was to put on a pair of socks.
Conneaut High School is also preparing for a visit from royalty. Thespian Troupe 4834 is practicing for the production of “Once Upon a Mattress.” The play is about the classic tale of “The Princess and the Pea,” which is the story of a prince who is searching for a bride. His future spouse must pass several tests constructed by the prince’s mother.
Fourth year director, Emily Wacker, has high expectations for the play. “The music is fun. The story is entertaining and it is sure to keep the audiences’ interest,” she said.
Tryouts were very competitive this year and prospective actors and actresses had to prepare a song and a monologue to perform in front of a panel of judges.
“It’s always a joy to get more people involved in theater,” Wacker said.
First time actress, Amber Ezzone, who plays the kitchen wench, is excited for her debut. “I have loved to act but didn’t really show it until my choir teacher, Megan Kalosky, convinced me to try out,” said Ezzone. “I enjoy singing and acting with new people. I am most excited to hopefully become a thespian and for show day.”
Student actors and actresses are putting much work into the play to make “Once upon a Mattress” a success.
“I go over lines every night in addition to practicing in the shower and the car,” said Carla Belnap, who plays Princess Winifred.
The play will be presented at 7 p.m. March 25, 26 and 27 in the CHS cafeteria. Tickets will be $6 for adults and $3 for students and will be available at the door.
Whether it is getting wet or “breaking a leg,” Conneaut High School students are working hard to provide entertainment for themselves, their peers and the community.
