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Old Characters Get Makeover In School Play

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By SUZANNE M. SCHMIDT

IN THE LOOP

Published: February 18, 2009

When most people think of "Hamlet" they think of a tragedy, but the students starring in the upcoming performance of "Haunted Hamlet" at Wiregrass Ranch High School in Wesley Chapel are hoping to change that perception.

The play is a comedy about a young woman named Wilma Shakespeare who writes a play that she thinks is more amazing then any play her supposed ancestor William Shakespeare penned. In the play, Wilma uses some of the same characters but that is where the similarities with Shakespeare's plays end.

Margaret Peacock, drama and English teacher at the school, said she chose the play because she wanted to do something light-hearted this year. She said even though the play is supposed to be "bad," it is actually very funny.

"It is kind of a play within a play," Peacock said. "Wilma Shakespeare thinks all the hype William Shakespeare has gotten all these years is phony. She writes a play where she has borrowed some of Shakespeare's characters. The actors are bad, the set is bad and the costumes are bad but she still thinks the play is wonderful. There is even a Greek chorus that is constantly commenting about the show and what a lousy play it is."
Sophomore Shekeinah Hill, 16, plays the part of Wilma. She said she plans to play her overly dramatic character with an over-the-top attitude.

"Wilma is really proud of her play," Hill said. "It is a terrible play but I am going to play it like it is the best play ever written. Even though it is meant to be a bad play, it is really fun and exciting. There are tons of twists and turns you wouldn't expect."

Senior Mitch Phelps, 18, plays the part of Hamlet. He said he has never been in a play before so to get one of the lead roles was a big deal for him.

"I think this play is definitely funny and it will be a big hit," Phelps said. "It is going to be really fun to watch because of the way each of us builds off of each other. The way we help each other out really makes the play."

Performances will be at the school, 2909 Mansfield Blvd., Feb. 19, 20, 26 and 27 starting at 7 p.m. Tickets are $5, call the school at (813) 346-6000 for more information.

Reporter Suzanne M. Schmidt can be reached at (813) 948-4288 or sschmidt@mediageneral.com.

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