Here in London, I was able to see a marvelous little play, “The Lady in Black.” It was the first time I was ever frightened enough (in a good way!) to shout out loud in a theater. It was acceptable, because everyone else did too. . . including a big group of college students.
It reminded me of three truths about good entertainment.
First, good actors (and there were only two real actors in the play) make a play. Two people appeared on a nearly bare stage and take us to different places and times. I have seen many bad high schools plays with more elaborate sets than this play. The American high school venues were more comfortable than the Fortune Theater (which had seating designed for munchkins and air piped in from a moldy basement). What don’t those plays have?
The two actors who were splendid.
Second, really scary does not depend on blood and gore. This is a G-rated play in terms of violence, but it produces R-rated fear. It is not profane, ugly, and uses almost no special effects not available to high school theater (fog and loud noises), but it works. It is well written. Most movies of late that are supposed to be frightening are simply disgusting.
Finally, a good audience helps a good play. God bless the college students (from all over the world) who watched this play. They participated in it by responding loudly and appropriately at the right moments. They were not cynical, jaded, or foolish. The older adults there (also from all over the world) had a good time as well. . . but a lively audience is priceless.
Like watching an Indy film with fan boys, enjoying a play with responsive people improves the experience.
Directing a high school play? Focus on acting and not special effects, costumes, and sets. Get a good script. . . not one everyone knows by heart. Finally, educate your audience so they understand how to behave at a theater (not like at a morgue, but not like watching television).