By Anna Kim, Photos by Fiona O’Loughlin
On
the chilly morning and evening of February 7, All the Tarnished Land, a
musical conceived and written by Vassal Lane students, had its premiere
here at Vassal Lane. Directed by drama teacher Alyssa Osiecki, with
musical direction by Brian Gellerstein, and set to the music of Bob
Dylan, the play is a story of corrupt politicians, environmental harm,
and the pull of family loyalties. President Gerald Ailio, the play’s
main antagonist (played by Anthony Rano), is planning to secretly
pollute some land in a deal that will get him money. As he’s explaining
his plan to his brother, Winthrop Ailio (Ishmael Sharif), the
President’s daughter Rory (Margeaux Harrington) overhears. She then
tells her cousin, Devon (played by Nia Betts) - a funny 13 year old with
plenty of attitude. The two girls then meet a lawyer (played by Ksenia
Holt) whom they tell of the President’s planned actions. The lawyer
decides to bring a case to expose the President’s misdeeds.
Our talented band members Lila Lifton, Tal Ben-Anat, and Anuj Gajjar
came through once again, providing stellar musical accompaniment.
Ezra
Biruk, a cast member, said “I felt really nervous before it started,”
and Anthony Rano, who played the part of the President, said “Although I
was nervous, it was FUN.” Nazari Tuyo, who was in the audience in the
morning show, found it “interesting.”
Mr. Shariff agreed, and said “Kudos to Alyssa and Brian for their
leadership and direction in our first original production. Parents were
very impressed by All the Tarnished Land. Our scholars showed both their
creative talent and their attention to issues of social justice.”
Macy Ingersoll, who was on the tech team, said “the play was so much
fun. We all really got to know each other. I recommend being in the play
next year, you’ll have a blast.”