On Aug. 31, students crowded the Little Theater at the first meeting for the fall play. Theater teacher James Shelby, who recently returned from a one year trip to Italy, announced the play he will be directing: "Scapino!", a physical comedy set in a seaside restaurant in Naples, Italy.

The main character of the production is a cunning young man named Scapino who enjoys playing tricks on others. The story centers around him as he creates hilarious mayhem and helps two men in their quest for love. Leandro, Scapino's master, and Ottavio are both in love with women, yet, due to unfortunate circumstances, are unable to pursue their true loves. It is up to Scapino, the smartest character in the show, to create a happy ending.

The original version of "Scapino!" was written by Moliére in 1667 in the comedy style of commedia dell'arte, a popular form of improvisational theater that began in Italy in the 15th century and flourished in the 16th and 17th centuries. Later, an updated version of the show premiered on Broadway. The version of "Scapino!" Gunn will put on is a contemporary revision set in the 1950s and 1960s with the characters interacting with the audience.

Senior Gavin Morgan, who plays Scapino, is very excited about the upcoming play. "I had recently been discussing commedia dell'arte and then Mr. Shelby comes back from Italy with 'Scapino!'," he said.

Auditions were held in the Little Theatre Sept. 5 and 6, and the cast is comprised of 14 people. The play will premiere Nov. 8. Until then, the cast members will rehearse every day after school. Key actors in the show include seniors Ben Christel, Katelyn Hempstead, Josh Knowles-Hinrichs, Michael Shomron and juniors Ella Cooley, Chloe Fuller and Annie Fox.

Students who are not part of the cast or the design group can still help by joining the tech class. "We meet every Wednesday afternoon, and students can help with publicity, costumes and painting sets, building props, make-up, etc.," Shelby said. "Students that are interested in the cool Italian styles of the '50s and '60s should definitely get involved."

The play will run Nov. 8 to 10 and Nov. 14 to 17. There will be an open dress rehearsal Nov. 7

Scapino: Gavin Morgan (12)

Geronte: Ben Christel (12)

Sylvestra: Katelyn Hempstead (12)

Ottavio: Josh Knowles-Hinrichs (12)

Leandro: Michael Shomron (12)

Zerbinetta: Ella Cooley (11)

Giacinta: Chloe Fuller (11)

Waitress 2: Andrea Barborikova (12)

Waiter: Ben Bowmer (11)

Waitress 1: Franzi Mayer (11)

Carla: Annie Fox (11)

Argante: Maev Lowe (11)

Head Waiter: Josh Messick-Kopel (12)

Nurse: Yvonne Lin (10)

Asst. Director: Genna Lipari (12)

Stage Manager: Rivka Kelly (11)