Soda Springs' young thespians shine in 'Monty Python’s Spamalot'

School theater productions are becoming less and less popular in many schools across the country.

This is unfortunate because studies show involvement in theater has proven beneficial in life experiences into adulthood. Learning to be on stage provides an education in how one can present themselves whether it’s in front of a large group of co-workers or a small room of corporate executives. A student's ability to portray confidence is a result of theater participation.

Yet still, so many students are missing this opportunity.

Kimberly Mumford, Soda Springs High School’s music and arts teacher, said, “I wish more students and parents could see how drama allows a larger number of students to share talents who otherwise never get a chance and encourage each other to take the leap at something unknown.”

When Mumford took over as the high school's drama director a few years back, the school's drama department was on a steady path of declining participation. She worked with what she had and slowly the department's grown but she would still like to see even more students participate.

On Saturday the Soda Springs High School Drama Department shared its talents by performing “Monty Python’s Spamalot.” Though the school's auditorium wasn’t packed, those who came were definitely shown a night of humor and talent.

The students' musicality and theatrics were excellent. Mumford said she chose this play specifically knowing there wasn’t exactly one specific lead role. With seven strong seniors performing, she wanted a play that would give each a chance to shine, and that they did.

King Arthur and his sidekick Patsy were played by seniors Hudson Moore and Tayson Inskeep, respectively. Their ad libs back and forth were excellent as they continually played off each other’s satire all evening. They and their knights kept the humor rolling.

Mumford says she loves how this play adaptation gives students a chance to ad lib without the audience knowing anything is out of script. Even with those ad libs you never saw a student break character.

Some strong vocals also helped make this play what it was. The song lyrics were funny and drew you into the storyline even more.

Mumford was given the opportunity to add a musical theater class to the curriculum at the high school and also teaches theater to the middle school students.

She decided to include a handful of these middle school students in “Monty Python’s Spamalot.” Her hope is they find a love for the arts at a younger age with more opportunities. These opportunities give them the chance to overcome the jitters of being on stage with the hope that they will get involved more in theater once in high school.

“The high school kids have been so welcoming to the younger kids. The sense of inclusion shows and really boosts their confidence,” Mumford said.

Monday is the last opportunity to see the Soda Springs High School Drama Department's performance of "Monty Python's Spamalot." The play starts at 7 p.m. in the Soda Springs High School auditorium.