SJHHS student, Reese Ravner (11), was chosen to be the assistant director of the spring musical, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. She works closely with Cambria Beilstein, drama teacher, to make the musical the best it can be.

As assistant director, Ravner gets full directorial say and opinion. She had to apply for the position, and was chosen by Beilstein, who is also director of the musical.

When reviewing the application, Beilstein was looking for someone who had been in the department for a long time. She was also looking for someone who was easy to work with and someone who had the maturity to handle the responsibility, and was committed. “Reese has all of these things,” says Beilstein.

“Its been really interesting seeing this side of the process of creating a show and being able to put in my own input with blocking and acting… it’s been really cool,” says Ravner

Being assistant director, Ravner has the privilege of working closely with Beilstein. Ravner comments on the unique way Beilsteins directs, in which she lets the actors build off their own instincts.

Ravner has been involved in theater ever since she was an actor at age six. Her freshman year, she helped build sets and from then on was inspired to explore the inner workings of a play.

The actors in the play agree that Ravner is a great assistant director. “I’m so grateful to have her feedback,” says Maddy Blomdahl, who plays Hedy LaRue in the musical.

“She’s only in my grade, so its really cool to see her take on that kind of responsibility that’s really high up in production team,” says David Diamsay, who plays Finch.

In addition to being involved with the play, Reese is also a part of video broadcasting, and is an NHS officer. Ravner aspires to move to New York and pursue a career in journalism.