North Forsyth’s theatre kids always seem to show a whole other level of talent when it comes to putting on productions, most recently being “The Pajama Game.” From tech to choreography to vocals, this play was definitely one to remember.

“The Pajama Game” is based off of Richard Bissell’s 1953 novel, “7 ½ Cents.” Love and romance blossom in the Sleep-Tite Pajama Factory as an attractive new superintendent, Sid Sorokin, takes a liking to employee and committee member Babe Williams. Though she first denies that she may have feelings for him, the inevitable couple falls deeply in love–until they find themselves on opposite sides of the battle for a 7 ½ cent raise. Sorokin has to stick by the business, while Williams, one of the Union leaders, believes it is her duty to fight for what is right. The couple must work out how to love each other while not leaving behind their values–and the rest of the company spends their time doing everything they can to get the raise they deserve. The show is sure to pull on your heartstrings.

Theatre kids are undoubtedly some of the hardest-working students in the whole school–and Haylee Wicks, junior, is no exception. Wicks played a supporting role as Gladys, who is the company’s secretary (and somewhat known for her promiscuity, but that’s a whole other story line). Theater students like Haylee had rehearsal almost every day after school until 8 p.m., and the week leading up to the opening night consisted of rehearsals every day until about 9 p.m. Through the rigorous and stressful schedule, however, there is never a lack of passion in their performances. Wicks explained that she “built so many amazing relationships and had such an amazing time with such encouraging people,” and that “all of the students in the program put so much love and energy into the shows.” Claire Williams (Babe Williams) shares a similar love for theatre: “I love performing so much,” she says. “I love being able to tell a story they may relate to or not relate to at all.”

During what the audience perceived as a seamless and completely serious performance, Wicks shared that they actually had a lot of fun backstage. The techies spent their time “dancing and waving their arms off stage and you can’t see it from the audience, but it’s really funny.” She explained that this helps to lighten the mood and to make the cast members feel less stressed. However, it’s not just the techies that are comical–sometimes it’s the audience. Williams shared that “one night during a very dramatic scene someone in the audience gasped really loud and it was so funny and so hard not to laugh.” Pure talent if you ask me.

NFHS theatre proves time and time again that North is home to some of the most incredible musicians, actors and dancers in the county. Congratulations to the department on such an amazing show, and don’t forget to look out for the announcement of the Shuler nominations in March!

Oh, and in case you were wondering, the knife throwing part was pulled off by the incredible techies. They came up with a way to throw the knives from behind the board at the same exact time as Andrew Parsons´s character threw them. Crazy, right?