A select number of students are experiencing a unique lesson on the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, as they prepare for roles in a stage play about one of America’s greatest tragedies.

The Turlock High School Drama Department is preparing a production of “Performing Tribute 9/11: Ordinary People, Remarkable Stories,” by author Donna Kaz. The stories of loss and inspiration are based on the real lives of individuals directly impacted by the events of Sept. 11, 2001. The original production used the real people in place of actors.

“It was difficult to find a theater piece about 9/11, especially something that was authentic,” said THS Drama instructor Michele VanNieuwenhuyzen. “Then I came across this piece. I called the author and asked if she would allow high school students to perform it and she agreed. We are very honored to be staging these stories.”

The students involved in the show were all between the ages of 4 to 8 years when the terrorists attacked America and their memories of that day are limited at best.

“For some of them this is the first time they’ve really looked into the events of that day,” VanNieuwenhuyzen said. “It’s an opportunity to learn and so far, they have been pretty moved by the stories.”

The play will open Oct. 20 and run Oct.21 and 22.

To contact Sabra Stafford, e-mail sstafford@turlockjournal.com or call 634-9141 ext. 2002.