Middle School Play to Benefit Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Arts Programs

Next month, students will take the stage in the auditorium as part of the first-ever production of “Drums, Girls & Dangerous Pie: A Play With Music.”

It’s a “huge honor” – and a big responsibility, said Christine Rizkala, an 8th-grader in the play.

There are two reasons for that.

First, it’s because they are the first group of students—ever—to perform this play. Bruce D. Orendorf, a parent and the director, adapted it from a book, with permission of the author, Jordan Sonnenblick. He hopes to publish the play for other schools, and the students know that they are setting the precedent for future actors.

“We have the power to portray this story to the world in a way other than just writing,” said Luke Rose, an 8th-grade student who is playing one of the main characters.

And second, it’s important because the proceeds will benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and the school’s arts programs, an 80-20 split that will be carried to any future schools that follow up with the production.

The story focuses on an 8th-grade boy who learns that his little brother has cancer. The story is serious, but also told with humor, said Andrew Clark, a 5th-grade student who is playing the younger brother. He recently lost his grandmother to leukemia, and wanted to do the play for her.

It’s a topic that affects everyone, said Michelle Adamczyk, a parent and producer of the play.

“We have a great responsibility,” she said.

Orendorf agreed, saying that the cast’s sense of responsibility has grown each day. He’s been guiding the students, helping them create a high-quality musical and an experience they’ll never forget.

The play will be on Nov. 4, 5 and 6, with a special benefit on Nov. 6. The benefit will include a silent auction, raffles, vendors and a performance by “Dangerous Pie,” a band made of teachers and parents, Adamczyk said.