Spring Drama Production Caps Off Year of Fun
Promotes Interactive Learning for Students
Fort Knox Middle High School (FKMHS) hosted its Spring production of “Once Upon a Mattress” at the Olive Theater May 10 and 11. The production capped off a year of growth for students, staff, and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to breathe life into the program after years of not having one.
“The performances went so well,” said Peter Watt, drama program teacher. “Everyone poured their hearts into this production, and I couldn’t be prouder of them for their efforts."
More than 70 students, 20 volunteers, and other Fort Knox Community members participated in the preparation, rehearsals, and performances.
“We had volunteers play critical roles in the success of the program. Lisa Fiest, music teacher at Van Voorhis Elementary School, directed the music. Angie Phillips was our choreographer and Ms. Cierra Pegg, FKMHS substitute teacher, designed our beautiful marketing materials,” Watt went on to say. “These ladies didn’t have children in the program, but they cared a great deal about these students and gave of their time and talent to make it special!”
To add to the show’s flare, student and volunteer designers crafted one of the largest sets in FKMHS drama program history, using 8-foot platforms to assemble the main set. The construction nearly delayed the production when it was discovered base safety needed to inspect the set design.
“I was really nervous,” said Watt. “There are so many planning considerations, but thankfully, the base safety office was responsive to our needs and were the consummate professionals—providing timely support to inspect our set, so the show could continue.”
For some, its bittersweet knowing this was their last performance.
"I had never done drama before this year, and I definitely recommend it,” Senior Anthony Narcisi said emphatically. “It is fun trying something new every day—in playing Father Christmas in ‘The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe’ and then King Sextimus in ‘Once Upon A Mattress’ I got to play someone else … it was an experience!”
Excitement is already building for what the program can become in the years ahead for returning students.
“Returning FKMHS Drama students are very motivated,” said Watt. “We have plans to compete at the Kentucky Thespian Festival in Owensboro with a student directed one act play, we are going to host three Coffee House talent show events throughout next school year, and stage a large ‘crowd pleaser’ full length play in the Spring of 2025.”
