FHS Theatre closes season with student-produced play
Kimmy Eves, played by Ella McGuffie, Rachel Billard, played by Shelbie Guckenberg, Emily Howard, played by Annelise Mason, Maggie Lutchan, played by Rylee Burkhart, William Abinov, played by Domminik Griffith, Thomas Miles, played by Elliot Brown, Jeffrey Bridges, played by Sean Struble, and Andrew Fibrie, played by Aiden Christy in FHS Theatre's production "We Robbed the Abinov."
The three FHS seniors who are the driving creative force behind, "We Robbed the Abinov": author, Daniel Edelen, and co-directors, Rebekah Hopp and Lydia Wood.
The Flathead High School Theatre Department concludes the 2020-2021 season with the student-written, -directed and -produced play, “We Robbed the Abinov,” May 27 and 28 at 6:27 p.m. in the David M. Hashley Theatre at FHS.
Written by FHS senior Daniel Edelen, “We Robbed the Abinov” follows a group of high school graduates recruited by infamous Russian archaeologist, William Abinov, to track down a stolen artifact from his world-renowned Abinov Museum. But, things are not always what they appear, and as the group dives deeper into the mission, they begin to question its morality and legitimacy. The past slowly comes to light and, with it, William's true intentions. With compelling arguments from both sides, the seven teenagers must choose who they believe is right and who is wrong.
“This show is an allegory for how the obsession over and quest for knowledge can consume a person and corrupt them,” Edelen said. “It’s an action-packed production that challenges morals and breaks the standard of good guy versus bad guy. Anyone looking for laughs, suspense, mystery and drama should see this show.”
As an Acting 4 class production the play is almost entirely student created. Lydia Wood co-directs the production with senior Rebekah Hopp.
“Acting 4 is a great experience because we are able to pass down traditions, advice, and the meaning of ‘ensemble’ to the underclassmen,” Wood said.
The cast includes Faith Cheff, Annelise Mason, Elliot Brown, Rylee Burkhart, Shelbie Guckenberg, Aiden Christy, Ella McGuffie, James Francis, Domminik Griffith, Sean Struble, John Owens, Alyssa Johnson, Daniel Edelen, Hannah Greene, Ben Hudson, Jazlyn LaPierre and Mira Casriel.
The technical crew includes Lydia Wood, Carson Robison, Emmerson Kaseman, Kay Gibbs, Isabelle James and Kyrie Chollman.
About the playwright
“I've been writing for the vast majority of my life,” playwright Daniel Edelen said. “Having my show come to life the way it has is nothing short of a dream. It makes me feel more confident about my future endeavors … I'm incredibly lucky to have such a great group of people to work with for this show.
“Any aspiring teenager with a dream to write should see this show … push yourselves to finish that script and take that next step.”
“Daniel is passionate about not only theatre, but also writing, film, and photography,” said FHS Theatre staff member Liz Sykora. “He uses these skills to inform a multi-lensed approach to the world of fine art.”
After graduation, Edelen is planning on moving to Seattle to pursue his goal of working in the film industry.
