After many years of theater in a lull, Kennedy has shown one of its greatest plays at the Kennedy auditorium!
The school play “The Last Day of School” was an exciting experience for many students, including sophomore Nathaniel Menchaca and senior Daisha Jackson.
Both actors described what The Last Day of School is truly about.
“The play is about seniors and what they are all doing for their last day in high school before graduating,” Nathaniel explained. “It’s a story to encourage teens to do what they really want to do before their high school life is over and to enjoy every moment of high school.”
Daisha shared a similar message.
“It was about just being bold and brave on the last day since everyone is going to college,” Daisha said. “And to do that one thing you’ve always wanted to do.”
Nathaniel, who played Javes Futterman in the production, shared how much he enjoyed being part of the show. At the same time, Daisha reflected on her experience performing in her final year of high school.
The play was officially announced to everyone in early September, giving the cast plenty of time to prepare, though Daisha explained Mr. Thomilson was already telling his theater classes before that.
Nathaniel described his character in detail.
“I played Javes Futterman,” Nathaniel said. “He is a straight-A student who gets sent to detention and meets a girl who is known for being bad.”
Daisha also explained her role in the play.
“I played April,” Daisha said. “She is Tom’s girlfriend. Her purpose is to act as the greater half of the couple.”
The cast prepared for the show by practicing their lines and supporting one another throughout the process. As Nathaniel explained, students would run lines with each other during the day.
Daisha added more about the rehearsal process, saying “everyone practiced their lines with our scene partners after school. Some would go on stage and perform our lines so we could get feedback on them.”
Nathaniel and Daisha each had personal reasons for auditioning. For Nathaniel, theater is more than an activity, it’s a dream he’s actively pursuing.
“I dream of being on Broadway and going to school for the performing arts,” Nathaniel said. “So, auditioning for this play was a no-brainer.”
He also added that Mr. Thomilson is an amazing theater teacher, which made the experience even more meaningful.
Daisha’s reason reflected her senior-year goals.
“Since it’s my senior year, I wanted to do things I’ve never done before,” Daisha said. “So I decided to audition just to see if I’d get in.”
Together, Nathaniel and Daisha’s experiences show how meaningful The Last Day of School was for the entire cast, whether it was someone’s first high-school play or their last. Their dedication and passion for performing helped bring the story to life, creating a memorable production for everyone involved.
