CHS Presents The Hope and Heartache Diner

Location: Duke’s Diner

Time: Past, Present (and Future?)

Any video and/or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.

Presented through special arrangement with Theatrefolk, Inc.

DIRECTOR’S NOTES

Everyone needs a place to belong. Was I the only one who joined in with Sam, Carla, Woody, and Cliff and greeted Norm when he walked into Cheers? “Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name and they’re always glad you came.” Covid taught the world that we are not isolationists, we must have a tribe and a place to belong to effectively function as human beings. Duke’s Diner is such a place. A family-run restaurant full of family history, regulars, strangers, stories, and love.

There are, however, times in our lives, scary times, when we must give up the warmth and familiarity of where we belong. Whether it be a new job or retirement, there are moments that take strength and courage to accept. “Making your way in the world today takes everything you’ve got.” Throughout the rehearsal process we have talked about the backstories of the characters you will meet; what life changes have led them to where they are now in their search for a place to belong. We meet them in the current day and in flashback as Felix struggles with the life-changing moment of high school graduation. Multiple performers portray multiple characters. Many (Most? All?) of these characters were adrift at one point in their life. Duke’s Diner was that place that provided an anchor for many of them. Turning our attention from the characters to the students portraying them, we have also discussed their own high school graduation with all of its excitement, anticipation, and trepidation. Graduation is a big change and with change comes opportunity and risk.

Here’s to hoping that whatever changes you face in life you are able to find a place (or places) where everybody knows your name and they’re always glad you came.

~ Mr. Myatt

The International Thespian Society (ITS) is an honor society for high school and middle school theatre students. It is a division of the Educational Theatre Association. Thespian troupes serve students in grades 9–12. A few famous ITS alumni include Tom Hanks, Val Kilmer, Madonna, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and Stephen Schwartz. The International Thespian Society was founded in 1929 in Fairmont, West Virginia, by Dr. Paul Opp, Earnest Bavely, and Harry T. Leeper. Thespians is an honorary organization for high school theatre students who earned membership through participation in their schools' theatre programs. The first troupe was formed by Dr. Earl Blank at Natrona County High School in Casper, Wyoming. Festivals are held annually at the state and national (international) levels. Membership currently stands at approximately 139,000 student members across 5,000 schools. The one millionth Thespian was inducted in 1976 and the two millionth Thespian was inducted in 2009. As of 2019, there have been over 2.4 million Thespians inducted. Camanche High School is Troupe 3452. Troup 3452

Felix …………………….…….…..…………………..…… Meagan Carney

Sam …………………….…….……….…………………... Isaac Benavides

Nell ………………...……………….………………………...… Alivia Baker

Loo …………...………………………… ………………..Kaci Ebensberger

Wiki/Rebecca/Raine/Ashley……………….................. Kahlen Jahn

Rat ……...…………...……………………..………………….. Riley Grimes

Mission ……..………………….…………….........…....Kiera Krogmann

Earl ……………………………………….…….………..… Braxton Laurion

Betty …………..…………... ………….……..…….………….. Josie Mielk

Felix, Sr. ………………………...………...……..……….... Kaleb Carder

Donnie/Cooper ………………….……………………...… Rylan Schultz

Lost/Shrug/Ms. Gillman …………………………. Athena Dahlstrom

Paula/Shannon ….……………………..…………….... Gretchyn Fairlie

Designer/Technical Director ……..…..……………… William Myatt

Costume Designer………...……………………..…….……. Sue Markel

Assistant Director………………………………………...Isabelle Bolton

Stage Manager …...……….…………………………..Emily Van Sloten

Assistant Stage Manager .……………………….... Clara Harrington

Tech Crew Noah Craig, Kaylee Dau, Giuliana Fairlie, Joseph

Frost, Gracie Haack, Clara Harrington, Mandy Peppmeier

Light Crew……………………………………………………..Taylor Setser

Hair/Makeup Crew Head ……...…………………..Kaci Ebensberger

Hair/Makeup Crew Shyanna Bogle, Kaylee Dau

Costume Crew ………………...Shyanna Bogle, Kaci Ebensberger, Giuliana Fairlie, Gracie Haack, and THE CAST

Special Thanks To:

Butch Bos, Bos Electronics

Clinton AmVets Post 28

Hell’s Our Home Motorcycle Club

Clinton, Iowa

The Holcomb Family

Brandon Mennenoh

Pleasant Valley High School Theatre

CHS Fine Arts Boosters

Rylan Schultz for designing our t-shirts!

CHS/CMS Administration & Custodial Staff

Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine givinggreater.org

Amber Kyarsgaard for photography!

Murder Mystery Night

The Last Dance of Dr. Disco

Saturday, May 20th @ 7:00 PM

CHS Commons

$10/adults

$7/students &senior citizens

Come dressed for the disco!

*Prizes awarded for best dressed and more!

Meet the Company

ALIVIA BAKER*SENIOR(Nell) daughter of Ronnie Baker, started acting during her 8th grade year. She is a current Thespian Officer of Camanche High School, serving as President. She has been a part of all things theatre as much as she could. She has been part of the shows JunieB.JonesisNOTaCrook,Annie,Seussical, LittleShopofHorrors, and now Hope&Heartache Diner . She plans on continuing in theatre at the University of Northern Iowa.

ISAAC BENAVIDES*SOPHOMORE(Sam) began his theatre experience in the 5th grade. His first show (against his will) was BedtimeStoriesand he hasn’t stopped since. He has appeared in JunieB.JonesIsNOT aCrook,FairytaleMisfits,TheRainbowFishMusical, Seussical,and most recently as Seymour in LittleShop ofHorrors . He is also involved in both Large Group and Individual Speech, Spanish Club, and Choir. He finds joy in singing and acting, but especially loves doing it with his friends. Enjoy the show.

SHYANNA BOGLE SOPHOMORE(Costume, Hair/ Make-Up Crew) has been in theatre since the 5th grade as an actor. She gained her confidence over the years and has flourished so much. However, she wanted to try something new with this show as tech for the first time. She is super excited to see behind the scenes. She hopes all the people watching enjoy the show, the actors, and the vibe.

ISABELLE BOLTON* JUNIOR(Assistant Director) started acting in the fifth grade when she played a Mule in RikkiTikiTavi . She has been involved in productions every year since. She has decided to turn away from acting and takes on backstage. She loves being both on and off stage. She makes sure to express her acting side during Speech season. She was inducted into the International Thespian Society in 2022 and is a current Thespian Officer for Camanche High School. She loves to direct and make sure her productions come together while having a good time.

MEAGAN CARNEY* JUNIOR(Felix) found her love for theatre during Seussicalin her sophomore year of high school. Since then she has been very involved in theatre, Speech, and Choir. Recently, she has starred in LittleShopofHorrorsas Audrey, as well as went to State Speech for both Readers Theatre (TunaFish Eulogyas Cherry) and One Act (ThoughtTrapsas Ariane). Meagan has loved working with everyone and is so excited for you to watch our production of The HopeandHeartacheDiner!

Checklist

□ have a good cry

□ pick yourself up

□ dust yourself off

□ keep going

The show must go on!

KALEB CARDER SENIOR(Felix Sr.) started his high school theatre career with a Variety Show during his Sophomore Year, and got back into it during his final year of high school with LittleShop . To top it all off for his high school years he will be helping give you a great performance in HopeandHeartacheDiner . He has loved all the support he has gotten throughout the years at Camanche High School. He thanks his family for all they do for him and how they have been with him all the way. He would also like to thank his Mamaw for coming out to enjoy the show.

So, enjoy the show y’all and Welcome to Dukes!

NOAH CRAIG JUNIOR(Blue Suit/Tech Crew) is in his second year of helping with drama and certainly not his last! He enjoys tech work, going to work, and loves pandas. Next year, he hopes to be a help with another great year of theatre. He also recently got into Individual Speech and loves it. He was introduced to Camanche High’s theatre program by former Assistant Director/Stage Manager (AD/SM) Mia Rhodes.

ATHENA DAHLSTROM SOPHOMORE(Lost/Shrug/ Ms. Gillman, etc.) is playing individual characters for the first time with this show. She has performed on stage during the 3rd—5th grades. She was also in Individual Speech 2023 for Improv and After Dinner Speaking. She loves the art of acting and is a big film nerd. She also enjoys writing and drawing. She is excited to make new friends and play these characters!

KAYLEE DAU SOPHOMORE(Tech Crew) started her theatre journey this year helping with Tech Crew and a little bit of hair/make-up. She is in Choir and Key Club. Kaylee loves art and the enjoyment in her family’s eyes when she goes out of her comfort zone. She is excited to help out backstage and connect with new people.

KACI EBENSBERGER* JUNIOR(Loo, Make-up Crew Head) began her journey in theatre during her Sophomore Year as the Make-Up Crew Head of Seussical . She was in LittleShopofHorrorsas an Ensemble person and Make-up Crew. She was involved in both Large Group (Ensemble Acting SlowSongs MakeMePuke,and Choral Reading StarTrekkin’) and Individual Speech (Poetry and Improv). She is in Band, Choir, and Key Club and is a Thespian member.

GIULIANA FAIRLIE FRESHMAN(Tech Crew) started doing Large Group Speech this year, and this is her first time doing anything for Theatre. She is ready to help out and have fun during the process. She is also involved in Band, playing the flute and violin.

SOPHOMORE(Paula/ Shannon) started theatre in the seventh grade. She has FairytaleMisfitsand She has done tech in two previous shows, CrazyLadiesintheHouseontheCornerand Little . She is also involved in both Large Group and Individual Speech. She is currently one of Camanche High Schools Thespian Troupe officers, serving as publicist. She is also involved in both Band up bass, electric bass, and electric guitar) and Choir. She finds joy in acting and other

(Tech Crew) began his path in theatre with this production, helping with Tech Crew. He returned to Choir and joined Key Club in 2022. Joe loves drawing and is trying to spice up his senior year with new things. He is excited to help with this production.

RILEY GRIMES JUNIOR(Rat) has been performing since the age of 3. she has been in numerous productions including LittleShopofHorrors,The WizardofOz,TheNutcracker, and *many* more. Riley is involved in Speech, Dance, Choir, and Theatre.

FRESHMAN(Tech Crew) started Large Group and Individual Speech this year. She is involved in both Band (clarinet) and Choir. She is excited to help people out backstage. She is ready for anything and also ready to have fun.

CLARA HARRINGTON FRESHMAN(Assistant Stage Manager and Tech Crew) started Theatre this year with Tech Crew during the musical LittleShopof Horrors . She became involved in Large Group Speech this year as well. She is excited to see how this production forms, comes out to be, and also being able to work with new people.

KAHLEN (KAT) JAHN JUNIOR(Wiki/Rebecca/Raine/ Ashley/Avery) has been acting since she was in middle school. Kat’s interest in theatre was sparked by her mom putting her into Showboat Camp at age 11 where she played The Nanny in 101 Dalmatians . 8th grade was their first school play and Seussicalwas their first school musical. Kat is very thankful for this opportunity and her theatre family.

KIERA KROGMAN FRESHMAN(Mission) started theatre in the 8th grade when she was told that she would be a good fit to try out. Ever since then she has found her spirit in theatre. She has played a sheep in A BagfulofFablesand a homeless person in LittleShop ofHorrors . She has dabbled in Large Group Speech, participating in Choral Reading StarTrekkin’.Kiera is also in Key Club, Student Counsel, Band, and Choir. She is very excited for this show and hope you enjoy.

BRAXTON LAURION FRESHMAN(Earl) started theatre in his sixth grade year. He first performed as Prince Raponio in the middle school show FairyTale Misfitsbefore performing as Aesop in ABagfulof Fables.Since then, he has participated in both Large Group and Individual Event Speech, as well as acted in Seussicaland LittleShopofHorrors.

SUE MARKEL (Costume/Hair/Makeup Designer) has been involved in theatre for much of her life. She costumed as a volunteer for several Gateway Contemporary Ballet productions and was lucky enough to be the costumer for four seasons on The City of Clinton Showboat. She would like to thank Mr. Myatt for bringing her out of retirement!

JOSIE MIELK* SOPHOMORE(Betty) started her theatre journey in middle school. She has been involved in many productions including FairyTaleMisfits , Rainbowfish Musical,CrazyLadiesintheHouseontheCorner,Seussical, LittleShopofHorrors.She is also involved in both Large Group and Individual Speech. She has enjoyed doing theatre with her friends and meeting new people.

WILLIAM MYATT* (Director/Technical Director) began his theatrical experience by playing Jonathan in Arsenic andOldLaceat Maquoketa High School. Since that time, he has acted in and directed numerous productions. These include playing Captain VonTrapp in SoundofMusic(City of Clinton Showboat) and directing SweeneyTodd,Carrie, and Ismene. Mr. Myatt has served as a leader on both the state (Iowa Thespian Director) and national levels (EdTA President) and is a member of the Iowa Thespian and the international Educational Theatre Association Halls of Fame. He enjoys a “dramatic” life with son Zach, daughter Anna, and wife Christina.

MANDY PEPPMEIER SOPHOMORE(Tech Crew) began her theatre journey this year helping with Tech Crew during the musical LittleShopofHorrors . She has been in Large Group Speech for two years. She has enjoyed helping out with the tech work and being able to meet new people.

RYLAN SCHULTZ SOPHOMORE(Cooper/Chopper/ Donnie/Falcon/BLT/Milo) has done 3 different shows in the past having started doing theatre last year. They are also in Choir. While not doing Theatre they like to get into a comfortable zone and hangout drawing and listening to music. But they believe this show is going to be pretty fun for everyone just like the last one. They hope everyone else feels the same, having a positive attitude the whole way through.

TAYLOR SETSER SOPHOMORE (Lighting Crew) just transferred to Camanche High School. This is her first year in theatre and her first production to help with. She is handling the lights.

CHEYENNE TUCKER FRESHMAN(Tech Crew) is in her first year of doing Speech and helping with Theatre. She plays the clarinet in band. She does Volleyball, Tennis, and manages wrestling.

EMILY VANSLOTEN* JUNIOR(Stage Manager) has acted in 5 performances starting in the 5th grade. This is the third show she has worked backstage. She is a Thespian officer and loves participating in all theatre productions in some way. She cannot wait to see this show come together and she hopes you all enjoy it!

Josie, You impress me more and more every year. I am so proud of you! I cannot wait to see what your future brings!

Love you!

Mom

Princess,

You never fail to amaze me. Whether it is on stage or on a track I will always be your biggest cheerleader. Have the best day ever!

Love, The Queen

Emily,

Love you, Mom

You are the most dedicated, kindest, loving, and hardest worker I know. Shoot for the stars.

Isabelle,

You continue to amaze us every single day! Your hard work and dedication to the CHS Theatre does not go unnoticed. You truly are a shining star and we are so proud of you!

Love you Boo!

Love, Mom & Nich

Riley, You have always been a shining star in everything you do! We are so incredibly proud of you!

Keep on being the brightest light out there! We love you the mostest!

Buddy we are so proud of you and all you are accomplishing this year, your final year of High School.

Love, Mom, Dad, Grandma, Da, and Mamaw

Kahlen—

You are a beautiful and talented young lady. We are so lucky and proud to call you our daughter. Have a great show!

Love, Mom, Dad, Koa & Kyler

Weareproudtobe yourmom,dad,and siblings,butwestill don’twanta milkshake!

IsaacWeareeverincreasinglyamazedat yourcouragetotake thestage,assumecrazy personas,singyour heartout,and otherwiseentertain

Loveyou!

Mom,Dad,Carter, Ethan,andEmme

Sendingyougood vibesandbest wishesBraxton andtheentire crew!

Withlovefrom yourfanclub

Camanche Fine Arts

Boosters (FAB) wishes all of the Cast and Crew a fabulous show!

BREAK A LEG!!

Support the Fine Arts by becoming a FAB member today!!

Giuliana,

We are very proud of you for trying so many new things this year. Don’t let anyone or anything dull your sparkle! I will always be your biggest fan.

Love, Mommy

Scan QR Code to fill out the Member Info to get added to our email list

Theater Do’s and Don’ts

Please DO...

· Turn your phone OFF, not simply on vibrate.

· Unwrap cough drops and candies if possible BEFORE the show starts.

· Remain in your seat during each ENTIRE act. Leaving during a scene or even between scenes is very distracting to the actors.

· Applaud and laugh when appropriate.

· Enjoy the performance!

Please DON’T...

· Take photos or videos during the show.

· Talk or whisper during the show.

· Attempt to make eye contact or get the attention of an actor during the show.

Children and Live Theatre

Attending a live theatre performance can be a magical and memorable experience for young children. Done well, you will be planting the seeds of appreciation in a young patron for a love of live theatre. Done not so well, you could create a

not-so-good experience for your child and the people seated around you. If your child becomes restless, please take him/her to the commons. We thank you for your consideration.

We hope you enjoy the show!