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The show goes on
Cancelled Turlock High play gets second chance
THS play Be More Chill
Performances of Turlock’s High School’s spring production of “Be More Chill” will resume May13-15 (Photo contributed).

After Turlock’s High School’s spring production of “Be More Chill” was cancelled due to mature content following one performance, the show is back on. Discussions between the Turlock Unified School District superintendent, Turlock High site administration and the play’s director resulted in the students being given a reprieve in the shutdown and performances will resume May13-15.

“Since the play was cancelled at THS, our superintendent has been working to find a way for the musical to go forward while ensuring that preparatory steps missed in its initial run were corrected,” said TUSD communications coordinator Marie Russell. “We are happy that these areas have now been addressed, the show will go on, and students will not miss out on this opportunity to perform, many in their final year at THS.”

These discussions included meeting with parents to make sure any questions that the community had were answered.

“Site administration and the director met to discuss the play’s selection and ensured that key steps were implemented including a parent meeting with student performers and clear messaging on the musical’s mature content,” said Russell.

One of the key considerations that were made is that children under 13 will be required to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Tickets will go on sale May 2 in the box office at lunch and one hour before show time. The show starts at 7 p.m. on May 13 and 15 and 3 p.m. on May 14.

Students are excited about the opportunity to do the remaining of the performances.

“It’s really cool how many people showed they cared, and we’re really grateful we get this chance,” said ensemble member Zefyra Mazuelos.

A lot of parents of the performers were advocating for their students to be able to perform, and said they are ecstatic as well that they will be able to do so.

“It's been a roller coaster of emotions,” said Amanda Howry. “My son wasn't sure how to feel about it at first, but now that it is actually happening, he's pretty pumped. There were many obstacles when presented, so I'm just thankful that the message of this musical and the cast will get their moment to fully shine. I'm hoping after all that these kids have been put through, that this community comes together and shows their support by packing the house for all three shows.”

“I’m just thrilled,” said Melissa Lima. “This is fantastic for the students who worked so hard to give this production life. I’m also grateful that this gives validation to our drama teacher, Mrs. V. But mostly I’m proud that our district leaders have reconsidered, showing our entire student population that it’s okay to take back a decision. That if you speak too quickly or are uninformed you can admit that and right a wrong. Also, that compromise is always a good policy. I see now that students under age 13 have to be accompanied by an adult to view the show and in my opinion that is a fantastic compromise to combat the PG-13 rating of the show. I really hope this is the beginning of a new trend for our school district and our town. I would love to see this lead to a more open minded, inclusive vibe for our community.”