J.E. Cosgriff Memorial School debuts its drama club with 'Annie Jr.'

Intermountain Catholic

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Students at J.E. Cosgriff Memorial Catholic School put on a production of 'Annie, Jr.' IC photo/Laura Vallejo

SALT LAKE CITY — J.E. Cosgriff Memorial Catholic School has implemented a drama club for students in grades 5-7.

Their first production, "Annie Jr.," was performed April 26 in the Saint Ambrose Parish social hall.

The play was directed by Susan Lacombe, who is also the founder of the drama club, in which 30 students participate.

"I love participating. This is a great experience," said 5th-grader Ella Kittrell, who played Molly the orphan.

For Hanna Gose, who played the lead, Annie, the performance was a very exciting moment.

"When I heard we were having a drama club I got really excited because this is a really great opportunity for us to develop our artistry," said Gose.

"Annie Jr." marked the inaugural presentation of the drama club, which is an extracurricular activity for the students.

"This is our inaugural year; Principal [Betsy] Hunt wanted us to be a true liberal arts school so this is just another piece in the puzzle to the global arts," said Sarah Boyle, in charge of the public relation department of the school.

Before coming to Utah two years ago, Lacombe used to teach and help kids with plays in New York.

"We are so excited to start this drama program here at Cosgriff. This is just the first of many to come," said Lacombe, adding that she has enjoyed being part of the Cosgriff staff.

The parents, family members and other volunteers worked extra hard to create all the costumes and the scenery for this play.

"They spent many hours building sets, making costumes and more for this event. That was a joint effort," said Boyle.

Among those who shared their creativity, talent and time to put together all the elements for the play were Ann Owley, Claire Donnelly, Amy Royer, Elaine Paasch, Chris Huntzinger, Robin Harmston, Judy Warden and Dan Lester.