From November 13 to November 15, the JPS Theatre Company put on a dazzling show that electrified the audience. Titled You Can’t Take it With You, the play is a comedy about the chaotic Sycamore family, a group of passionate people who follow their hearts. The mother, played by Adrija Paul, writes plays that no one reads; the father, played by Daniel Dreitser, constructs fireworks in the basement; and unexpected strangers wander into the house and stay.
The story centers on Alice Sycamore, played by Annie Sinsen, the one relatively “normal” family member, who falls in love with Tony Kirby, played by Aiman Ahmed Shaik, the son of a wealthy family. Alice worries that Tony’s parents will judge her family’s erratic behavior. When the Kirby family shows up on the wrong night for dinner, they walk into utter mayhem, with fireworks exploding, unfinished dance routes, and unexpected houseguests scattered throughout the home.
Despite the embarrassment and tension that Alice faces, the play ultimately proves that money and status don’t guarantee happiness. The Sycamores are joyful and loving in spite of all of their oddities, while the Kirbys are constantly stressed and rigid. By the end of the play, both families learn that life should be lived with passion, kindness, and humor. As the title suggests, you can’t take money or possessions with you to the grave, but you can take your everlasting memories with you.
While the play was amazing, it would not have been possible to produce without the assistance of the stage crew. Stage worker and sophomore Shaurya Patel said, “It was fun being able to talk to all the cast and learn how the lighting technologies worked in the new auditorium.” The stage crew is vital to a play’s execution, as they handle everything that the audience doesn’t see but the show actually depends on; for example, the stage crew constructs set pieces, moves scenery, manages lighting and sound, and creates props. Stage manager Dhriti Vohra, a sophomore, shared, “I enjoyed spending long hours with the team, and I made so many memories that will help me in my future.”
On top of the amazing show, the JPS Theatre Company offered a variety of snacks and drinks during the intermission, during which they sold cookies, chips, and soda, all at affordable prices. The tickets for the show were $18.
Overall, the JPS Theatre Company’s production of the play You Can’t Take It With You was very successful, as Assistant Director Ms. Weber reflected, “Having the opportunity to be the assistant director of the JPS Theatre has been a truly rewarding experience, as I get to collaborate with enthusiastic, hardworking students who bring creativity and commitment to every rehearsal. This year’s production of You Can’t Take It With You was especially exciting, with the cast and crew embracing the play’s humor, heart, and celebration of individuality. We are looking forward to the upcoming spring musical, Guys and Dolls. Hope to see you there!”
