As curtains rise on a new academic year, students at Venice High are buzzing with excitement over their fresh theater program led by new teacher Jimmy Darling, an experienced actor and passionate educator dedicated to nurturing young talent.
Darling brings a great amount of experience from both stage and screen to his role as the theater teacher. He’s acted in commercials, short films, like “Hilltop: A Savage Land” and “Light In the Dark,” student projects, and even an independent feature that showcased his versatility as an artist.
“I want my classroom to reflect what I loved about being part of a successful theater community,” said Darling.
He outlined plans for this semester’s curriculum, which is focusing on practical elements like stage combat and set design (alongside traditional theatrical studies such as vocabulary development and history lessons).
Looking ahead, anticipation builds as plans unfold for Darling himself directing a show next semester; this exciting event will showcase talent nurtured under his guidance.
Senior Elias Giamo, director, a veteran of Venice’s theater program since her freshman year, is taking on a double role this winter: director and actor.
Giamo, who has graced the Venice stage in productions ranging from Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream to Edgar Allan Poe’s Tell-Tale Heart, is now at the helm of 10 Ways to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse, a comedic take on the undead invasion.
“It’s about four people who are trying to survive the zombie apocalypse” Giamo said. “I think it’s really funny because they get into some wild scenarios that are completely unrealistic.”
Giamo, who plays Narrator One, promises audiences a laugh riot filled with genetically modified killer dogs, kung fu action, outlandish weaponry, and satirical jobs at the government.
Darling said about the upcoming shows directed by students.
Adding to the excitement, the production boasts a brand-new makeup team, a welcome addition for Giamo, who admits to lacking expertise in the cosmetics arts.
“Only a few weeks ago, the students took it upon themselves to start putting their own shows together.” Darling said, “They’re doing two one act plays, which are about 35-40 minute plays, and they’re directed by students, casted by students.”
Performances are scheduled for December 12th and the 13th, with the possibility of an additional show on the 14th, pending auditorium availability and winter break schedules.
So get ready to laugh, cry, and maybe even sing along as Venice High School’s Art department presents their highly anticipated production of 10 Ways to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse and Fire Exit.
