Theater students offer peak inside 'system'

(Photo by Randy M. Cauthron) Students await the first bell on the opening day of school in 1957 at Calvin Coolidge High School in New York City. The opening scene kicks of a fun look at a metropolitan high school in "Up the Down Staircase," performed by the Spencer High School Drama Department. [Order this photo]

Based on a book that uses school passes, notes and memos to depict the life of a high school in the late 1950s, "Up the Down Staircase,' Spencer High School's fall drama department production gives a unique glimpse at the eyes of the education system from a new, idealistic teacher, students who have no interest in studying let along being in class, cynical teachers who simply accept the system, and the ridiculous bureaucracy littered with forms and procedures that tie teachers hands as they attempt to enlighten the future leadership of the country.

The book actually first appeared on store shelves around 1964, earning the distinction of becoming a best selling novel. It looks at the inside of large metropolitan Clavin Coolidge High School in New York City, and using warmth and comedy, focuses on a teacher, Sylvia Barett (Anna Robison) whose ideas of what the students need are disrupted by inadequate facilities, communication shortcomings, and the trivia of paperwork in triplicate.

The story's predominantly told, though not entirely, through Barett's eyes - in monologues, dialogues with her students and fellow faculty, and letters written to her college friend, Ellen (Jill Applegate).

The large cast, most of whom portray students, speak with their own voices about the issues of education in their life, exams, books, integration, and teachers.

Teachers and administration are given their fair share of stage time as well. Some creating opportunities, others creating red tape and distractions.

Described as both humorous and tear-jerking, the two act production of Bel Kaufman's Up the Down Staircase will speak out to teachers, students, parents and audience member, suggesting, "Let it be a challenge to you."

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Up the Down Staircase will be performed by the Spencer High School Drama Department on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 31, Nov. 1 and 2. Showtimes on Friday and Saturday will be at 7:30 p.m., and a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. All performances will take place in the old Spencer Middle School Auditorium.