by CONNIE TABBERT
Editor
COBDEN — Is it possible for nerds and jocks to get along? What happens when nerds move onto jocks’ turf in hopes of saving the school?
To find out, check out School For Nerds, live on stage at Cobden District public School next Thursday, April 6 and Friday, April 7.
Teacher Ian Covell said School for Nerds is just over an hour long and is a two-act comedy.
Students felt they wanted to have another avenue in the arts program besides band, he said.
“They approached parent council for rights and the script money and from there it all evolved and we’re almost ready to put this thing on the stage,” Mr. Covell said.
Students in Grades 7 and 8 are most of the cast, but a few Grade 5 students are filling some of the spots.
“The gist of the play is a school that is well-known for their athletic program is going to close down because the students are not succeeding and they’re not passing classes,” Mr. Covell said, adding, “So, they bring in a very nice bunch of bright nerds in order to boost their scores.
“Then of course all their antics ensue as to how the jocks and the nerds get along.”
The $5-a-ticket-show begins at 6:30 p.m. in the school’s gymnasium and there will be a short intermission with the selling of popcorn and refreshments, he said. Tickets will be available at the school and at the door.
Any proceeds will go into the school’s music night and if there is enough money, towards the junior basketball tournament in the spring, Mr. Covell said.
Mr. Covell said his daughter Megan spoke to him about the idea of something besides the band for the arts program and since he agreed with her, decided to take on the leadership role.
“I agree with her that there is a need for those students who excel in the arts, and not just physical education, to have that extra-curricular opportunity to excel and shine with the talents they have,” Mr. Covell said.
There are 21 students involved in the play, including working on the set design.
He is hopeful people will attend one of the nights to show their support for the students.
“It was an opportunity for them to get on the stage and share their talents,” he said. “We’re looking for anyone to come, friends, family, whoever.”
The cast members are Kiannah Barr, Hayley Stewart, Tom Petermann, Wesley Peever, Tim Petermann, Austin Prins, Carolyn Bolle, Abbey Leversuch, Eryka Lariviere, Jasmine Roy, Rachel Ready, Lexi Leuders, Madison Noble, Andrew Lemieux, Georgia Wylie, Megan Covell, Emma Prange, McKoel Patterson, Khloe Bertrand, Penny Gordon and Wes Gordon.
