Holy Rosary High School students are cranking the clock back to the era of neon and mixtapes with their upcoming production of Back to the ’80s, hitting the stage April 30.
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The one-night-only performance is a playful spoof inspired by iconic films such as Back to the Future, The Breakfast Club and The Goonies, blending humour, pop culture references and student creativity into what organizers promise will be “a blast from the past.”
Drama club director Chay White said the production reflects years of steady growth for the school’s theatre program.
“We started about five years ago and we’ve just been building the program ever since,” said White, now in his second year as director. “This year’s show is really a celebration of everything great about the ’80s.”
The cast includes roughly 22 student actors, supported by about 10 more working behind the scenes on lighting, sound and set design — much of it created by students in theatre arts classes. White said the production is largely student-driven once the curtain rises, with mentorship playing a key role.
“A lot of these students meet each other for the first time when we cast our play and they build friendships and mentorships,” she said. “It’s a safe place where they can express themselves and develop skills they’ll use for the rest of their lives.”
Grade 12 student Dane Segberg, who plays antagonist Jeff — a stereotypical ’80s jock — said the role has pushed him outside his comfort zone.
“It’s been fun. It’s a different angle for me,” he said, noting this is his first time performing on stage after narrating last year’s production. “It can be intimidating, but once you get into it, you just go for it.”
For Segberg, the show also marks a final opportunity to support the program before graduating.
Grade 9 student Jaden Baria, who plays lead character Marty Fitzfry, said the experience has helped build confidence both on and off the stage.
“The adrenaline — it’s what keeps me going,” she said. “This year, it’s not about hiding behind a character. It’s about what I bring to it.”
The production will also feature an opening musical number by the school’s musical theatre group, adding to what organizers say will be an energetic and entertaining evening.
White said the goal is simple: give audiences a fun night out while showcasing student talent.
“It’s going to be two hours of laughs and a blast to the past,” he said. “Come out and support the drama club — it’s going to be a fantastic night.”
Admission is free, with donations collected at the door supporting next year’s production.
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