MTPA To Perform "Kodachrome"

Kristel Kennedy, director of the Manheim Township Performing Arts (MTPA) fall production of "Kodachrome," describes the play as "similar to 'Our Town' and to 'Almost, Maine.'" "It has a lot of vignettes of people (interacting). It keeps moving around the town," said Kennedy.

"Kodachrome," by Adam Szymkowicz, will be presented at Manheim Township High School, 115 Blue Streak Blvd., Lancaster, on Thursday, Nov. 18; Friday, Nov.19; and Saturday, Nov. 20, at 7 p.m. each evening. Audience members will be required to wear masks.

Kennedy explained that the play is narrated by a photographer, played by Kristen Bennett, who has died but has not yet transitioned to the next life. With her camera, she records the townspeople as they live and love. Only the gravedigger, played by Jack Turner, can see the photographer, and as he interacts with her, he encourages her to move beyond her past life in the town. Other members of the small cast are Eva Anderson as the librarian, Abby Kimani as the florist, Evan Castner as the hardware store owner and policeman, Grace Kline as the mystery novelist, and Jayden Gonzalez as the history professor and perfume maker. Maggie Spealman will play a young woman, and Lily Reaser will play a waitress. Amadeus Cigan will appear as Marjory and EMT 2, and Maya Tate will play a friend and EMT 1. The stage manager is Alex Atencio, and the assistant stage managers are Kayla Raab and Gabbie Reedy.

Kennedy said that she chose the play because it deals with subjects and emotions that are relatable. "There are moments that are very human ... where characters talk about loss and love. (The play) has very poignant moments," she noted. To enhance one scene where two characters remember their prom night, a choreographer was engaged to create a dance for the pair.

Although the actors will wear masks, plastic inserts will allow their mouths to be seen to help convey emotions.

"('Kodachrome') is hopeful and upbeat," said Kennedy. "I really like that there's hope."

Tickets for all performances are available at http://www.showtix4u.com by searching for "Manheim Township High School." Tickets will be discounted for students.