By Aleah James – Staff Reporter

The Drama Club at Jonathan Law is more than a group of performers – it’s a creative community.

Members rehearse, design, build, and bond through shared work, laughter, and the spilled McDonald’s fries backstage. They attend professional productions, compete in award shows like the Halo Awards (last year’s team won for Best Costumes/Execution and received seven nominations for “The Lightning Thief”), and offer a place for students to grow.

Senior Drama Club President Christopher Serrano said he hopes to create a space, where every member feels valued and supported, whether they are on stage or behind the scenes.

“Drama is about collaboration, and the best experiences come when you commit fully and trust your fellow members,” Serrano said.

The group’s first meeting was Monday, September 23, where they did a full read-through of the show their strengths as a cast.. The production will run for three nights in the school auditorium, which the team is transforming into a magical setting.

The play picks up 19 years after the original Harry Potter series, focusing on Harry and his son Albus as they navigate identity, legacy, and the power of choice.

Senior Ross Dejusti was chosen as the lead role for Albus Potter.

“I didn’t choose the lead role,” Dejusti said. “I had initially auditioned for the role of Scorpius, Draco Malfoy’s son, but I was also open to any male roles. I do love Albus’s character, though, and definitely opened up to the idea of playing him during callbacks.”

Dejusti added that while last year he shared a co-lead role, this time he’s ready to step into the spotlight.

“I think the best part of leading roles is how much involvement you have in rehearsals and being able to really focus in on your character,” Dejusti said.

Though he’s not planning to pursue acting as a career, Dejusti said Drama Club has still left a huge impact on him.

“Drama Club and our productions give me a sense of purpose and belonging,” Dejusti said. “Nothing is more exciting than seeing everything come to fruition once the show is on.”

Janelle Dimya, a returning sophomore member, said that being in Drama gave her a strong sense of belonging.

“When I hit a high note or finally nail the choreography, I get the overwhelming feeling that this is where I’m supposed to be,” Dimya said. “Drama is a place where you can really let go and own your talent. Everyone is extremely kind and appreciative of each other’s talent. That encouraged me to try new things and take risks with my role.”

Dimya also reflected on the community she’s found.

“I’ve met some of my best friends through Drama,” Dimya said. “We bonded over McDonald’s trips before rehearsal in the rain, stolen backstage chatter, and inside jokes about questionable lyrics. I encourage anyone who’s interested to join because seeing us all grow our confidence and skills is such a reward, and of course our productions are always amazing. If you don’t join, you can support us by coming to see our performances.”

She said the club is always looking for new members to join.

“We’re always looking for new people, especially crew members and boys,” Dimya said. “We have a strong backbone of dedicated people, but having more guys and people in the crew would be so valuable for us.”

Carter Elliott, a three-year member of the club, agreed.

“Being in Drama is basically like being in one giant family,” Elliott said. “People get along with each other so well, I can always go to anyone in the club if I ever needed to.”

Elliott hopes more people will join the club this year — especially guys and backstage crew.

“Even if you don’t act, there’s something for you,” Elliott said. “Tech crew, lights, set building… it’s fun and chill, and you get to be part of the show in a different way.”

Tickets for “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: High School Edition” will go on sale in early November.