“10 Stories, 1 Bench”, that’s the slogan of this year’s fall play, Benchmark. The fall play was produced differently than the other predecessors, one of the key differences being that different directors helped to produce this play, such as Mr. Hoyt and his student teacher, Mr. Renc. Joliet Central Drama Alumni, Adam Rociles, Hannah Hagety, and Angelica Jarret, were chosen as additional directors to help create different vignettes, or “little plays”.
“I was so excited to share this process with such talented, young visionaries and, more importantly, for our drama students to have the chance to work with directors that brought so many experiences to the table. Benchmark reminded us of the beauty of conversation and the importance of living our lives with each other ‘in-person’” said Mr. Hoyt when asked about his inspiration for this format. “This play was a huge project for everyone involved, and the students really stepped up and rose to the challenge,” said Mr. Renc, about his first directing act here at Joliet Central High School.
Benchmark used background projection to enhance the story told in an intimate way, with a Black Box setup being used to create a closer-up atmosphere, meaning that mics weren’t needed and the audience could feel pure emotion from the actors. All ten vignettes that were performed were drastically different, however, still delivered the same message. Two of the most contrasting stories with a similar message were “The Armadillo-Iguana Bacterial Unification”, directed by Adam Rociles, and “Cloud Illusions” directed by Mr. Hoyt.
The first story is a comedic skit that starts off with the protagonist, Jane, walking by in a park while a stranger, Lizbeth, is on the park bench reading a book. This vignette revolved around the theme of compassion and mutual understanding, with both characters sharing their experiences with sick pets. Two complete strangers were able to bond, with some hesitation at first, through a mutual conflict, and even share a hug in the end.
Cloud Illusions, a drama-styled vignette based on the song “Both Sides Now”, is a story about a lawyer named Mitchell, walking by a park where he sees a bride, Joan on the floor looking at the clouds. Through this tale of child loss, fear, and growth, two people are able to find closure, even at different levels. Even with a drastic turn— it discusses how even in the most alarming of times, people always seek comfort, even from a total stranger.
Be a friend for someone– don’t let a person be hidden in the shadows. Communication is key for human survival.