Chestermere High School’s Fine Arts Academy is stepping into the spotlight this December with its ambitious theatrical production of The Outsiders, the iconic coming-of-age story by S.E. Hinton. Directed by Grade 12 student Henry Lewis under the guidance of drama teacher Ms. Fulthorpe, the show features a cast and crew of dedicated young performers who have spent months transforming the beloved novel into a dynamic stage experience.
The production runs Friday, December 12 at 7 p.m., with two additional performances on Saturday, December 13 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are available online through School Cash and at the door, with both VIP and general admission options.
Here is our virtual dialogue with student director Henry Lewis:
Why The Outsiders? A Student-Driven Choice
The decision to stage The Outsiders emerged entirely from the students themselves. At the beginning of the semester, the class presented pitches for potential productions, complete with thematic arguments, staging ideas, and audience considerations.
“After hearing everyone’s ideas, we voted on the option we felt was the strongest,” explains Lewis. “Most of us were already familiar with the story—we read it in Grade 8 English—and now we had the chance to bring it to life on stage.”
The grade 10 students, having studied the book most recently, strongly championed the choice. The production also offers a unique connection to local learners: Chestermere Middle School students, who are currently studying the novel, will attend special preview shows on December 11.
Students at the Helm: Acting, Designing, Building
Chestermere High’s production is notable for how much of it is student-driven. While the cast fills the stage, the backstage activity is equally impressive.
Lewis began the semester by designing all sets and props—choosing textures, materials, and shapes that echo the gritty, urban atmosphere of the novel. Several students helped him build each element by hand, from the wooden set pieces to the metal-mesh wall structures visible in production photos.
Their stage manager, Daphnie, plays a pivotal role behind the scenes, capturing every lighting cue, sound cue, and blocking note to ensure continuity and precision.
“Each of us plays an important but different role,” says Lewis. “What you see on stage is only possible because of what’s happening backstage.”
Technical Challenges and Triumphs
Despite the complexity of the production, Lewis says the team managed to avoid major setbacks. The largest challenge has been completing all props and set pieces in time to incorporate them into rehearsals.
“Once the sets were ready, everything else fell into place,” he notes. “Now it’s about polishing scenes, tightening transitions, and making sure the show flows cleanly.”
The cast rehearses with full sets, lighting, and props—a luxury not all school productions achieve before tech week.
Inside the Rehearsal Room
The rehearsal process began with a full cast read-through, followed by auditions. From there, Ms. Fulthorpe led the blocking of early scenes while Lewis focused on construction work. As the sets neared completion, he began blocking the final scenes himself.
“Now we’re reviewing blocking, running off-script, integrating props, and fine-tuning performances,” he says. “It’s exciting to see it come together.”
Photos from recent rehearsals show the cast embracing the gritty energy of the Greasers and Socs—complete with denim jackets, leather coats, retro styling, and confident stage presence.
The Student Director Experience
For Lewis, taking on the role of student director has been both challenging and rewarding.
“There were stressful moments,” he admits, “especially trying to finish things before we needed them. But seeing it all come together has made it worth it. I’ve had incredible support from Ms. Fulthorpe and the entire class.”
He adds, “I can’t wait to see how the audience reacts. That’s what makes all the effort meaningful.”
Show Dates, Tickets & Seating Options
Performance Times
• Friday, December 12 — 7:00 p.m.
• Saturday, December 13 — 3:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.
Tickets
• VIP Seats — $15 (Reserved seating in the first two rows)
• General Admission — $10
• Children 5 & under — Free
How to Buy
• Students: Purchase through School Cash
• Community members: Scan the QR code (opposite)
Tickets also available at the door (cash or debit)
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