Puffs, Potter, and Pure Magic
Natalie Newquist, staff writer
Johns Creek’s Theater Department welcomes a new year of sparkle, spotlight and smiles. This fall, from October 22-24, Johns Creek High School Theatre is bringing “Puffs" or “Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic” to the stage. Based off the Harry Potter books and movies by author Joanne [JK] Rowling, the comedy follows a group of students who find themselves in one of the school’s less celebrated houses as they navigate their seven magical years.
Rather than focusing on the school’s most famous students, “Puffs” put the spotlight on Hogwarts students who are often overlooked. The production uses humor to tell a story about finding a place to belong,
“As a freshman, I was a little nervous about going into it and meeting the upperclassmen, but everyone I’ve met has been so kind and welcoming, and it’s just such a wonderful group to be a part of,” says Emmerson Linke, a cast member in “Puffs”. Linke plays Hannah in “Puffs”.
That message of belonging extends beyond the story itself and into the work happening behind the scenes. For the JCHS Cast and Crew, the most difficult part of the whole process was making the magic come to life. The behind the scenes includes endless hours of painting and building sets, rehearsals for choreography, choir, and acting, and lighting and sound schemes to make the show what it is.
“There is a lot of work that goes into the show from the crew, even when the audience doesn’t see it. We spend lots of time organizing props, preparing the set, helping with costumes and technical elements, and making sure everything runs smooth and is ready for a performance,” says Saanvi Maddineni. Maddineni is the Assistant Stage Manager of “Puffs”.
The production is also introducing a brand-new director to the JCHS theatre program. After working at Autrey Mill Middle School previously, Ms. Arthur is joining the high school program. She has taught theater and acting for many years and believes strongly in the importance of being a part of something greater than just one person.
“The most rewarding part [of being the JCHS director] has been seeing upperclassmen and freshmen come together and a lot of new students who are younger that I’ve never, ever seen before. So, just a lot of new faces coming together and instantly wanting to collaborate and connect with each has been pretty inspiring.”
Not only has Johns Creek gained a new director but an additional major increase in the number of participants as well. The growth has expanded beyond personal capabilities, but also growth in numbers. This year, a huge increase in participants for the fall play is proof of the wonderful community the JCHS players have fostered.
“When you have somebody who is dedicated to the process and willing to be vulnerable and take risks, they grow exponentially and it is the most jaw-dropping thing,” says Ms. Arthur.
For the students involved, both cast and crew, bringing the story to life is a production of its own. Many members admit to having grown their community and friendship this year, which is something they would like audiences to understand and take away from their performance. With its combination of comedy, ensemble acting and an unconventional group of protagonists, “Puffs” promises a different kind of magic to the JCHS stage this fall.
As opening night approaches, excitement continues to build among both cast and crew. After weeks of rehearsals and preparation, students are ready to share their hard work with the JCHS community. With its humor, fast-paced storytelling and memorable characters, “Puffs” or “Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic” is sure to give audiences plenty of laughter, smiles and fun!
