The Camas High School theater program is one of a kind: everyone is talented in more ways than one. And while a lot of people are scared of being outcasts, joining theater is a great way to meet new people and step out of one’s comfort zone.

Mr. Kelly, the theater teacher, is the heart and soul of acting in CHS. He teaches, directs, and acts in many plays and musicals throughout the school year. Christian Ortega thinks very highly of Mr. Kelly. “He helped me be a more outgoing person,” Christian said. There is non-stop love in the drama room.  “The environment is positive and energetic,” says Christian. In addition, the students in theater are just as magnificent. “Everyone’s friendly and supportive,” says Ty Gouveia. He, and many other students think of this group as a family.

However, theater does not always have the best reputation. It is often stereotyped to be weird and obnoxious, which is far from the truth. “I thought it was weird in the beginning,” says Collin Kauzlaric. A year later, he is enrolled in advanced drama and loving every moment of it.

The CHS theater has put on so many astonishing plays. Nonetheless, not everyone knows how much time and effort it takes to make it spectacular. For example, the recent production of Silly Heart took three months of rehearsal every afternoon; each practice lasted for two hours. This was followed by a week of dress rehearsals which cumulatively took twenty hours of blood, sweat, and tears.  

If you are shy or have anxiety, theater is a great way to get out of your shell. “Don’t be afraid,” said Abbie Martin. Not only does Mr. Kelly connect with you emotionally but teaches you how to be a better actor. As Christian Ortega said, “take the chance of joining theater.”