Fort Kent thespians tackle serious subject with “Boom Box”

1 year ago

FORT KENT, Maine — The name of the play “Boom Box”  does little to reveal the serious subject matter Fort Kent Community High School thespians will tackle in their next production. 

Written by director Doug Clapp, the one-act play focuses on a group of teenagers who discuss their thoughts about participating in a mass suicide.

“If these six people who committed a group suicide had a chance to talk after they did it, would they still think it was a good idea?” Clapp said. 

The six characters discuss their feelings about their decision through monologues. The play also contains some twists, according to Clapp. 

Actor Oliver Caron (left) and director Doug Clapp at a rehearsal of the one act play “Boom Box.” (Jessica Potila | St. John Valley Times)

The play is not just about teen suicide, though.

“It’s a commentary on the chaos of society,” actor Olorin Braun said. “It really challenges the audience’s mind.” 

The young actors will flex some serious acting chops when they perform the play this weekend at Fox Auditorium. The community performances allow the students to fine-tune the show for the Maine Drama Festival one-act play competition on March 11 at Stearns High School. 

The Fort Kent Drama Club will perform Boom Box this Friday, March 3, and Saturday, March 4, at 7 p.m. at the University of Maine at Fort Kent’s Fox Auditorium.  

This play lasts 40 minutes and contains serious subject matter, so may not be suitable for young children.

Tickets will be sold at the door and will cost $7 for adults and $4 for students. 

Sadie Pelletier (left) and Oliver Caron rehearse for the one act play “Boom Box,” which Fort Kent drama students will perform this weekend. (Jessica Potila | St. John Valley Times)