Join the Holyoke High School Theater Company on Wednesday, January 31, or Thursday or Friday, February 1 and 2, at 6:30 p.m. for three hilarious performances of Michael Frayn’s “Noises Off.” It is a laugh-out-loud comedy that focuses on the chaos of trying to put together a play.
Michael Frayn’s “Noises Off” takes a fond look at the follies of theatre folk, whose susceptibility to out-of-control egos, memory loss, and passionate affairs turn every performance into a high-risk adventure. This play-within-a-play captures a touring theatre troupe’s production of “Nothing On” in three stages: dress rehearsal, the opening performance, and a performance towards the end of a debilitating run. Frayne gives us a window into the inner workings of theatre behind the scenes, progressing from flubbed lines and missed cues in the dress rehearsal to mounting friction between cast members in the final performance. Brimming with slapstick comedy, “Noises Off” is a delightful backstage farce, complete with slamming doors, falling trousers, and—of course—flying sardines! Parental guidance recommended: Contains mature themes and language.
Under the leadership of Theater & Media teacher Bevan Brunelle, the Holyoke High School Theater Company is an after-school club that is an extension of the Performing & Media Arts Academy at Holyoke High School North. The cast and crew of this production involves students from grades 9-12 including: Eben Beaudry, Grace Bechard, Touya Benvenutty, Kelcy Brunelle, Cian Callahan, Marielis Camacho, Miguel Dailey, Sophia Estrada, Aidan Fontanez-Courchense, Linken Geddis, Qua’Nae Golston-Thomas, Gabriella Knowlton, Jayden Lopez, Fynn Maldonado, Sebastian Morris, Mia Ortiz, Eila Ramoth, Mya Rodriguez, and Sage Vermes. The performances feature sound design by class of 2025 student Aiden Pares and lighting design by class of 2024 student Kiaree Perry.
Advance tickets are $10 for general admission and $5 for student and staff tickets. Advance tickets are available for purchase (cash only) at HHS North’s main office or online via credit card (additional fees apply for online purchases). No exchanges. Online ticket sales will end at 9 a.m. on January 31, but same-day tickets will be available at each performance for $5 each for students and staff and $15 for General Admission. This production has been made possible by the generous support of PeoplesBank and Jim Newton, Dalkia, The Linville Foundation, MIFA/Victory Theater, and Ellie & Toby Wilson.