Article by Phoenix writer Margaret Nitkewicz ’26:
This past weekend, Kellenberg’s very own Drama Club put on two outstanding performances of Agatha Christie’s “A Murder Is Announced.”
After countless hours spent rehearsing in the Kellenberg Auditorium (and occasionally Room 240), the small but mighty cast finally got to share their hard work with an audience. The intriguing plot of the murder mystery, enhanced by the passion and talent of the 24 students in the show, had everyone on the edge of their seats.
In this production, the role of Mrs. Marple, the unexpected protagonist, was played by junior Victoria Vakser. Surprisingly, this was the breakout star’s first ever play. In stark contrast, the other lead, murderer Letitia Blacklock, was portrayed by senior Madeline Naughton, a familiar face to returning audience members. The combination of Naughton’s masterful acting and Vakser’s embodiment of Mrs. Marple was the recipe for another memorable show, directed by Mr. Murphy.
Sunday afternoon’s performance concluded with the final bows on the Kellenberg stage for seniors Faith Cairo, Melina Lanza, Madeline Naughton, Erin O’Connor, Sean O’Connor, Finn O’Rourke, and Lucas Sheehan.
When asked about the impact that Drama Club has had on her, Madeline Naughton stated: “The group is truly my family and I’ve truly grown up in the club. It’s been a safe space for me in all of my time at Kellenberg.”
While this might be their last full length show as Firebirds, the senior cast members still have the Upperclassman Variety Night this spring to look forward to; it is one last hurrah for these Drama Club veterans, many of which have been involved with the club for the entirety of their time at Kellenberg.
As the curtains close on the Class of ‘25, the performers remember Mr. Murphy’s saying: “Drama Club lives today, Drama Club lives forever.” It’s safe to say that, because of doing theatre together, they have been changed for good.
