Sixth grade plays, like those at Bedford, have long been fixtures in the Westport theater program. However, it is uncertain whether this year’s “Fractured Fairy Tales” will be the last—at least for the next few years.

“Fractured Fairy Tales” is a series of about nine different short plays condensed into one, all comical versions of real fairy tales. While it is simple, it is abundant in roles and characters. Mrs. Karen McCormick, the director, said, “I chose it because it offered kids the maximum amount of opportunities for having a larger part.”

In the midst of Coleytown’s merge with Bedford, in which both are using the same stage and costume rooms for their respective plays, its simplicity is extremely beneficial. Due to Coleytown Company’s production of 42nd Street, Bedford is unable to use the stage until the end of March. Since the play is in April, this means that there are only three full weeks to rehearse there. This resulted in an uncomplicated set for Bedford’s play, consisting of mainly blocks and other props.

The music, as usual, is also limited. The sixth grade play typically isn’t a musical, and in this case, it will make the work easier behind the scenes.
The costumes are simple, too, with solid colored and few-pieced outfits. As previously mentioned, the costume room is being shared between both acting groups, so this should allow this department to run more smoothly.

The play, though, may be the last of its kind for awhile, or until the current situation is resolved. The Board of Education has seemingly decided to set up a sixth through eighth grade school at Bedford, combining the two middle schools.

This could be problematic in regards to the sixth grade play’s continuation. Still, Mrs. McCormick explained, “Plans are up in the air about how we can make it work, but it appears that the administration are 100 percent behind us and trying to make sure we still have the play. They agree that it’s very important to us.”

The sixth grade play is, essentially, the beginning of kids’ careers in the Westport theater program. As this runs throughout both middle school and high school, it is valuable for them to gain the experience as early as possible. The competition with other clubs, also, increases with each grade level.

Another reason to maintain the production is for the students’ love and passion for it. Sixth grader James Pretty, who plays Curdy in the “Goblins” skit and George in “Princess and the Pea,” said,

“I really like acting and the play. There’s a huge plot twist in my scenes, and it’s really fun.”

Kaela Cohen, who plays the princess Elaine in “Princess and the Pea,” agreed. “It’s a lot of fun to do. I joined because I like acting and make believe, and it’s super fun to do the fairy tales with all the different scenes and emotions. It’s all coming together with the different parts and fits really well.”

Hopefully, a functional system will be devised once a comprehensive plan is established by the Board of Education. Bedford Acting Group will perform “Fractured Fairy Tales” April 26 through April 28.