Fraser High students prepare for final run of The Mousetrap

Director Matthew Woods stands inside the Fraser Performing Arts Center, overseeing the final preparations for a production of Agatha Christie’s classic mystery. The play, known as The Mousetrap, features a small ensemble cast and a plot centered on a snowbound inn where a detective investigates a series of deaths. Woods, a 2014 graduate of Fraser High School, has directed plays at his former school for the past five years. He selected this specific script because it offers every actor a distinct opportunity to stand out on stage.

The cast includes senior Ash Salvaggio, who plays Sgt. Trotter. Salvaggio, 17, noted that the script keeps the actors alert as the identity of the suspect shifts from character to character. "Every single character is just a fun, crazy personality," Woods said during a late-October rehearsal. "It keeps you guessing the whole time." The production relies on a fast pace to maintain tension until the final scene.

Other students in the cast include Rhianna Johnson as Mrs. Casewell, Calen Agnew as Mr. Paravicini, Tyler Anderson as Giles, Noah Woods as Chris Wren, Cam Durnell as Major Metcalf, Breyanne Stallman as Mrs. Boyle, and Lucy Stewart as Mollie. Stewart, a senior who has participated in school theater productions previously, is taking on a larger role this year. She described the emotional range required for her character, who begins with joy and transitions into anxiety. "It’s really fun because I get to yell a lot," Stewart said.

Behind the scenes, junior Ava Lupo serves as the head stage manager. Lupo, 16, is responsible for coordinating the movement of curtains and ensuring the set is ready for each scene. "I tell the crew backstage what to move, where to put it, when to put it, and all that," Lupo said. She emphasized that the success of the show depends on the entire team working together, including those who build the set and manage the lights and sound.

Woods pointed out that the first ten to fifteen pages of the play introduce each character individually, allowing them to present themselves as unique personalities. "I like shows where everyone gets a little spotlight," he said. This structure allows the audience to see how each person might fit into the mystery. The director believes that participating in theater teaches students about cooperation and individual accomplishment.

Salvaggio credited the production with helping them develop public speaking skills and confidence. "I’ve learned how to work with people," Salvaggio said. "It’s helped with my confidence and also my social ability." Stewart added that every role, regardless of size, is necessary for the performance to function smoothly. The students viewed the process as a collective effort that requires long hours and multiple responsibilities.

The Fraser High School production of The Mousetrap is scheduled for three performances at the Fraser Performing Arts Center. The show will run on Friday, November 6, at 7 p.m. On Saturday, November 7, there will be two showtimes: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Interested viewers can find ticket information at fraserperformingarts.org.