Standing Ovation

The stage is empty except for two ladders and a couple of chairs. With an imaginative mind, one can picture the expansive scenes of the play “Our Town.” Directed by Junior English teacher, Matt Bova, the EHS Senior Play this year will be a heartfelt production of the classic play “Our Town.”

Mr. Bova first fell in love with “Our Town” when he was 20 years old and hasn’t forgotten it.

“Our Town has lingered in my heart ever since,” said Bova. He rediscovered the brilliance of the play 3 years ago, when he first taught it in Junior English.

“The particular intensity that [Our Town] invites is so immensive because you notice the things that won’t happen again and you can derive a deep pleasure from absorbing as many moments from your life as you can,” said Mr. Bova.

That brilliance resonated deeply with his students, and as a result, they pestered him to direct the Senior Play.

One student in the play is Senior Austin McNorton. McNorton plays Dr. Gibbs, and has been a major part of school plays since his freshmen year.

“I’ve been working with these people for 4 years and to do last go around with them, especially a classic like Our Town is really special,” said McNorton. Not only is it Austin’s last play, but also Mr. Bova’s, as he is planning to retire with this year’s graduating class. It’s one of many things that make this upcoming performance so special.

“It’s almost like a tribute to Mr. Bova really,” said McNorton. “It showcases all the hard work he’s put into the school and I hope our class can portray his incredible vision and passion he shows.”

The play will be performed on March 25 at 7 p.m. in the EHS Performing Arts Center.