Last Friday afternoon, the FHC Spotlight Players hosted about 250 students, many of which were freshman, for its annual theatre kickoff meeting and the picnic that followed.

“I think everyone was in extremely high spirits, really pumped to get this year up and going,” Director Michelle Moll said.

After being seated in the theatre, students were shown a video that outlined the 2011-2012 school year’s theatre officers including President, senior Nic Deckard; Vice-President, junior Sean Gundersen; Treasurer, senior Jordan Peasel; Secretary, junior Rachel Eikmann and Historian, junior Andrew Henke. At the end of the video, returning director, Ms. Moll, announced the 2011-2012 theatrical season.

The fall play, “The Crucible,” will be performed the last weekend of October, auditions are this Thursday, August 18 after school from 2:30-6:00p.m., and callbacks August 19 after school. Following the fall play, is the Student Directed One Acts.

“I chose “The Crucible” because of the character development and the array of parts in the show,” Ms. Moll said. “The musical is a show that isn’t as popular, but it’s really enjoyable and I hope the FHC community enjoys it.”

Second semester opens up with auditions for the spring musical, “How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying” and closes with a workshop and show geared toward children. Ms. Moll, also expressed interest in opening up a competition to the Francis Howell Central community to write the best children’s show to be used at the end of the season.

In addition to the announcement of the upcoming season, Ms. Amanda Brasher was also introduced as the replacement technical director, taking the place of two year tech director Mr. Brandon Franck.

“This is my first year here,” Ms. Brasher said. “I love theatre with all my heart, and since I graduated from FHC, it makes my position this year even more exciting.”