W.F. West High School is set to conclude its theater director Brian Adams’ 30-year tenure with the performance of “Beetlejuice,” a musical adaptation of the 1988 Tim Burton film. This production, which will run from December 12 to December 20, 2023, marks a significant milestone as it showcases Adams’ final project before his retirement.
Adams, who has directed over 50 productions at W.F. West, expressed mixed emotions about stepping down. “I still have it in me, but I think it’s time for some new blood,” he remarked. With his retirement approaching, he sought to secure the rights for “Beetlejuice” as soon as it became available for high school performances.
The musical follows a deceased couple attempting to haunt their former home’s new inhabitants, with the help of the mischievous ghost Betelgeuse. The story also highlights Lydia, a young girl grappling with personal loss and family dynamics. Senior Ruby Stanton, who plays Lydia, emphasized the relevance of these themes in real life. “These are things that happen in real life, which I really enjoy that it’s being told in a show,” Stanton noted.
Junior Charlotte Calway, portraying Lydia’s stepmother, shared her own insights, comparing her character’s challenges to her experiences with her stepfather. “He’s done it a lot better than my character has done it, but I really honor that,” she explained, reflecting on her evolving understanding of family roles.
For senior Justin Hazlett, landing the role of Betelgeuse has been a long-held aspiration. Having first encountered the musical as a child, he felt a deep connection to the character. “I just really clicked with the character,” Hazlett said, describing Betelgeuse as “wacky, zany, and very loud.” Hazlett has enjoyed the creative freedom to interpret the role in his own unique way.
Adams plans to maintain a presence at W.F. West even after “Beetlejuice” concludes, remaining as a coach and consultant for future productions. “I’m not like leaving and saying ‘goodbye, don’t even bother me,’” he stated. He hopes to continue supporting the theater program and encourages aspiring directors to apply for his position when it becomes available early next year. “We’ve built a strong program in here over 30 years, and I don’t want it to die,” he stressed.
The performances of “Beetlejuice” are scheduled for December 12, 13, 19, and 20, at 7:30 p.m., with an additional matinee at 2 p.m. on December 20. Due to the use of flashing, strobe, and laser lights, there is a photosensitivity warning for the show.
Tickets, priced at $9 each, are available for purchase at the W.F. West ASB Office by calling 360-807-7235. Tickets can also be purchased at the door, subject to availability. The performances will be held at the W.F. West High School Theatre, located at 342 SW 16th Street, Chehalis, with the entrance near the Coach Jack State Memorial Tennis Courts.
As the curtain prepares to fall on Brian Adams’ illustrious career, the W.F. West community looks forward to celebrating his legacy through the vibrant and imaginative world of “Beetlejuice.”
