‘Stage Door’ is open

Suzie Harrison

Laguna Beach High School’s award-winning drama department is bringing

the 1930s dramatic comedy “Stage Door” to life at the Artists’

Theatre as its first theatrical production of the year.

Drama department director Mark Dressler said the cast has 33

students and includes every grade.

“The old shows are good to do because they have a big cast,”

Dressler said.

He said that the seniors have been beneficial role models to the

younger kids in the program.

Katie Bing, 16, is playing the lead role of Terry Randall, who

lives in a theatrical boarding house with other aspiring, rival

actresses.

“My character and Jean Maitland, we’re best friends in the

beginning, but have differences about the stage and Hollywood and

what’s considered real acting,” Katie said.

Jean, played by Alex Murrel, 17, becomes a big Hollywood movie

star. Terry has the same chance of being a star, but being on stage

is most important to her.

“She’s sick of the stage, you don’t get paid as much and you’re

not as famous,” Alex said. “She goes to Hollywood, leaves everything

behind and comes back this hugely famous star. Her views have changed

on everything.”

Dressler said all the characters have a moral dilemma and Katie’s

character is the only one who doesn’t sell out.

“As an artist, you set a certain goal, a moral standard and stick

to it,” Dressler said. “We discuss the plays and they see the

importance of sticking to values.”

Alex said that she thinks that the play’s message is relevant

today and that looks unfortunately play an important part.

“Terry is a better actress of the two, but Jean is picture perfect

with a beautiful face, a person who gets all the roles,” Alex said.

“A good example is Britney Spears, she’s beautiful, but there is so

much better talent out there.”

“Stage Door” will be performed 7:30 p.m. Nov. 11, 13, 18, 19 and

20 and at 2:30 p.m. Nov. 14 at the Artists’ Theatre, 625 Park Ave.

Tickets are $15 for reserved seats, $10 for adults and $8 for

students. For tickets, call (949) 497-7769.