“An Enemy of the People” cast prepares for its debut

WLHS’s latest dramatic play premieres in two weeks

West Linn High School’s drama department will present a full-length dramatic play called An Enemy of The People, directed by Annie Kaiser, on Friday, March 7.

The play follows Thomas Stockmann, played by senior Tristan Avery, a doctor who discovers a secret about the water supply in his town and seeks to inform the public. Though he expects to be seen as a hero, no good deed goes unpunished— Stockman’s reveal of the corrupt town government leads to large and unforeseen repercussions.

“It’s a very involved and thoughtful piece that explores what it means to be an individual,” Nathan Barinstein, sophomore and cast member, said. Barinstein plays Eilif, the son of the protagonist Dr. Stockman. “I’ve really enjoyed working on it.”

To keep up with West Linn’s history of professional-grade productions, the cast has been rehearsing almost every single day after school, sometimes till 7 or 8 pm.

“At times it has been stressful because we missed days for the snow,” Barinstein said. “Also some people were in Regionals (an acting competition outside of school), so they had to be gone. But we made it work.”

Kokanee Ellingson, sophomore, has enjoyed the fast pace and hard work. This is her third production at the school.0. “I’ve loved being able to hang out with the cast and getting close with them,” she said. “It’s such a fun experience.”

The show premieres at 7 p.m. on March 7. Tickets are available through the theatre department’s website or in the auditorium the night of the show for $5 to $8.