Harwood Union High School drama students embrace pandemic with virtual play

By Waterbury Roundabout | December 3, 2020

For Harwood Union High School drama students, the show must go on – pandemic or not. 

In fact, the theater group is entirely embracing the COVID-19 pandemic with its first virtual play that launches tonight and is available to watch online through Sunday, Dec. 6.  

Official play poster. Courtesy image.

"10 Ways to Survive Life in A Quarantine" was written by Don Zolidis especially for actors to perform online and geared toward anyone who finds themselves unexpectedly indoors. It’s billed as “the perfect play for imperfect times” featuring seniors Mo Wing and Winter Haberle, sophomore Maddie Thibault, and freshmen Abigail Leighty and Annie McMillion, as well as a few surprise guests.

“The show is full of helpful solutions to quarantine boredom like announcing a made-up sport, putting on a musical with your pet, or getting too involved with the lives of the squirrels outside your window,” its description explains. 

Director Scott Weigand said the dedicated student group was determined to keep the theatre program alive and put on a show despite COVID-19, distancing, and part-time remote learning. The school typically presents a play in the fall and a musical in the spring. Their choice of material also aims to lighten the somber mood lately. “It’s funny and silly, and everything you need right now,” Weigand said in his announcement.

The show will stream online for those purchasing a $5 ticket, although contributions beyond that are appreciated and will support the Drama Department, Weigand said. Purchase tickets and donate online at huhs.anywhereseat.com.

Streaming begins at 7:30 p.m. tonight (Dec. 3) through Sunday, Dec. 6. Anyone with a ticket may view it anytime during that window. 

Another link to the event is on Facebook: facebook.com/events/370723067332165.