This year, the Gabrielino drama department chose a comedic play: “The Iliad, the Odyssey, and All of Greek Mythology in 99 Minutes or Less.” The show opened on Nov. 14 in the Goodson Theatre and ran through Nov. 17.
With a large number of roles and only 99 minutes to fit everything, “The Iliad, the Odyssey, and All of Greek Mythology in 99 Minutes or Less” was a zealous production. It included running around, chanting, and spontaneous dance moves.
“To prepare, we do vocal warm-ups and body stretches so we aren’t stiff on stage,” senior Lila Mora-Martinez said. Although it was her last year at Gabrielino, it was her first year as part of the school play. “It’s my last year, so I just wanted to try something new,” she said.
When asked if being a senior affected how he felt about the production, senior Jaden Phuong responded, “Honestly, not at all.” He continued, “It really doesn’t have like an emotional significance—we’re just having fun.”
“I do enjoy giving some help to the newer guys,” senior Amy Diep added. Phuong and Diep have both been a part of Gabrielino’s productions for three years, and they hoped to show their growth in these last two productions.
One such newer guy, freshman Harvy Lu, played a main role and was on stage for about two-thirds of the play. As it was his first year as part of production, he was “really dreading it” at first. “But I’m okay with it now, and the people I’m working with make it much more tolerable,” he said.
Preparing for the play brought some larger challenges. “The hardest thing here on campus is everyone’s schedules,” Director Bobby Hundley explained. Actors had other obligations, such as sports and extracurricular activities. “I don’t think I’ve had a single rehearsal—and we open tomorrow—where I’ve had every actor actually be here.”
However, the group was able to put the final touches on the play and deliver a complete performance. For senior Miguel Salguero, who worked on costume and makeup, the real challenge was backstage. “It’s fun to be able to help these people get into their characters and roles,” he said.
“I’m excited for the audience to laugh—I mean, the kids are really funny,” Hundley said before opening night. “I’m excited for the audience to actually see the work that these students have put in over the years.”
