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It is perhaps a play that every school should perform.
Drama students at Sayville High School over the weekend delivered an outstanding performance of “26 Pebbles,” a play that addresses the events surrounding the Dec. 14, 2012, school shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut.
Inside the intimate setting of the high school’s Little Theatre, teary-eyed audiences on Friday night and Saturday afternoon witnessed breathtaking performances by students who reflected the depths of fear, loss, grief, anger and hope.
“Moving scenes came alive in their faces, their voices, and their hearts,” said Linda Mittiga with Sayville schools.
“26 Pebbles” playwright Eric Ulloa took multiple trips to Newtown months after media coverage diminished, conducting 60 interviews of people from all walks of life in the community. The play is not as much about the killing of 20 young children and six adults as it is about hope, family and community, Ulloa has said.
“He deftly shifts the tragic focus that could be Sandy Hook’s legacy to one of hope and love,” Mittiga said. “The play … offers a human and balanced view of all aspects from outrage to compassion.”
The district said that during rehearsals, psychological counseling was provided by Mary Gravina, assistant vice president of Counseling and Pediatric Services, Hospice Care Network. She counseled the students about grief in wake of such tragedies, and helped them identify with their characters and not be overwhelmed by the traumatic re-enactments.
“It was an especially bonding experience. As the actors learned their roles, they remembered the news reports and media coverage of the incident,” Mittiga said. “Seven-and-a-half years ago, many of the performers were close in age to the 6-year-old victims. One actress was a 6-year-old living close to Newtown at that time.”
After both performances, the cast took part in question-and-answer sessions with the audiences, sharing their insights about acting and noting Newtown’s resemblance to the Sayville.
“It’s been quite a ride for us,” Sayville Drama Director Doug Shaw said, “and I’m very proud of this group.”
The Saturday matinee, despite the winter storm, raised $400 for the Sandy Hook Promise Foundation.
Below are photos taken by Mittiga during the “26 Pebbles” performances. Click boxes 2 and 3 to see them all.
