Drama, Tech showcase annual Dessert show

END OF SHOW: Members of the Costa Drama/Tech Department bow together as they close their show. They held their 2023 Dessert Theater show on March 16 at 7 p.m. in Costa’s small theater. Photo by Jenna Brodkin/La Vista

By Jenna Brodkin

Online Editor

Costa’s Drama and Tech Department held its Dessert Theater production on March 16 at 7 p.m. in the small theatre.

According to Drama teacher and director Jonathan Westerberg, every year Drama and Tech showcase scenes it will use to compete in the following weekend at Fullerton College High School Theater Festival. They put on two acts worth of scenes and sell various desserts at the beginning, end, and intermission. All of the proceeds go toward their attendance at Fullerton College.

The event was put on my the students in the department along with teacher Mr.Westerberg and many parents who work the event.

“I loved being able to sit in the wings and watch my classmates perform,” said senior Ashley Calza. “We all worked so hard, and I love learning and growing with my friends.”

During the show, students could either perform a monologue or a scene with a partner. The performances also included theatre games that practiced improv and a musical cut from their spring musical “Mamma Mia.” The Mira Costa Tech team also showcased skills and what scenes they will be using to compete at the festival.

“We love having the chance to show our peers and parents what we have been working on in the department,” said junior Ellie Penczar. “It’s so important because we then take these scenes and perform them at Fullerton College.”

According to Penczar, students have been working on the scenes since early February. They worked on them individually, then moved on with their group or with their partner.

There were many desserts being sold outside the small theater, all proceeds went to the departments attendance at the Festival.

“Mr. Westerberg’s notes really helped us, and the performances would not be as good as they were,” said Penczar. “We trust his direction and appreciate him.”

Students dedicate time during their Drama period and after school to putting on the show, according to Penczar. They have been rehearsing every day in Drama, and students that are part of the musical theater practiced after school, according to Penczar.

“The show is extremely helpful and important for the department,” said senior Jack Searer. “It is a chance for us to practice our material in front of an audience before we leave for the festival and compete with it.”

The Mira Costa Comedy Sports team performed a round of Theater games where they practiced improv for the Fullerton Festival.

The Fullerton College festival happens every year, and around 60 to 70 schools attend. This year, Mira Costa tech green team won the Tech Olympics and took home first place. Four of the department’s other entries placed in the top three.

“Working with everyone in Drama/Tech was really just a bonding experience,” said Searer. “We all put in so much time and effort into these categories, so getting to share the experience of the rehearsal process, dessert theater, and the festival itself is something I will keep in my heart forever.”