Paul Kane High School drama student Hayley Moorhouse deserves a big pat on the back. Her original play Grocery Story was selected to attend the Provincial One-Act Festival at Red Deer College on May 10 to 12. And she returned home with a triple win.
Grocery Story, a production that deals with the fears and rewards of risk-taking, won an award for best set design. Hayley Craft was recipient of best stage manager and Moorhouse received an honourable mention for best playwriting.
There were about 15 high school entries, but only three were original student-written plays.
“It was an awesome experience. The adjudicator is even helping me to get in touch with a dramaturge. She suggested I write a version and pitch it as a TV show. And I think she’s right. Theatre lends itself to the abstract. My script is linear and character driven,” says Moorhouse who was both playwright and director.
The last time the Grade 12 student attended provincials was in 2010 when she participated in Terminal Lowes. However, the production didn’t win.
“It was exciting to have people remember it and congratulate you on a great show.”
This summer while most of us are holidaying, Moorhouse will be networking, revamping ideas and expanding her play into a television season.
“I’ve gotten some recommendations and I’m starting with that.”
