EPHS Drama presents One Act Play ‘Lockdown’ Jan. 26-27

Eden Prairie High School’s (EPHS) drama students will perform their One Act Play, “Lockdown” by Douglas Craven, on Thursday, Jan. 26, and Friday, Jan. 27, at 7 p.m. in the school’s Performing Arts Center.

The play, which is about a lockdown drill at a high school, is free to attend, but cash donations are welcome. Donations will help defray bus costs when EPHS competes at Chanhassen High School on Saturday, Jan. 28, in Subsection B of the Minnesota State High School League Section 2AA One Act Play Tournament.

“I chose this play because I wanted to do a more well-known play for competition this year,” said Jay Asfeld, the play’s director and EPHS’ Performing Arts Center manager.

“I think the audience can expect a tense look at what goes on during a school lockdown and I hope that they see how the characters change through their interactions in this environment.”

Senior Elizabeth Stephan, who is playing the role of Phil, said, “I think this play is important because it’s different than most of the plays we have done recently.

“It has a darker and more serious tone that I’m really excited to do. I hope the audience takes away that even if we’re characters on the stage, there are bits of us coming out that is how we would react in the situation our characters are in,” she said.

The club has been working since early December on the One Act. “I really love having a small cast and tech,” Stephan said. “It allows for us to all get to know each other more, and it’s a really good environment.

“I feel like the best part is our chemistry, we know who we’re supposed to be and how we would interact with every single character,” she said.

Asfeld agreed: “This show has given me an opportunity to work with students that I have not directed before and created some good moments that the audience will enjoy.”