Joseph Green, the esteemed auditorium manager and technical director for Novi Middle School’s hit play “Eureka! Science and Invention”, will be held on November 3rd at Novi Middle School.
Green skillfully directed the stage crew in their lighting of a scene as actors Rachit Naik, 13, and Kian Rabourn, 14, watched in admiration. The technical rehearsal was held on Oct. 20. 20, and its success is a testament to Green’s leadership, experience, and commitment to excellence.
The play is set to be unveiled on November 3rd, with its narrative spanning ancient Egypt to the Y2K worries of the late 1990s. Naik and Rabourn describe the show as “a celebration of different scientists throughout history,” a powerful combination of mathematics, science, and history that will inspire young minds.
The characters explore the invention of glasses, telegraphs, Morse code, radio transmitters, and even the telephone.
Naik emphasizes that the production is a tribute to scientific discoveries that have shaped our world, from the realization that Earth is round to averting the millennium bug.
Rabourn adds that learning about the incredible people behind these inventions is an opportunity. Anna Ekevag (13), who works in the props department of the play, notes that it offers a new insight into the lives and achievements of those who have contributed significantly to the world today.
“I find it inspiring,” she said. “It’s taught me to appreciate the efforts of those who have gone before us and inspired us to work hard for what we want. It’s a great way to build self-confidence and be proud of yourself.” Naik also shares her enthusiasm for theatre. She states that it has opened her mind to new ideas and perspectives. “Theatre has changed the way I think about things. It’s made me more open to different points of view and has helped me form strong opinions on important topics.”
Ekevag proudly shared how theater has been the source of some of her best friendships. She said it is a very kind environment where no one can make a wrong move. She highlighted theater’s positive impact on a friend last year when they were going through a difficult period, as it helped them cope and move forward. Ekevag asserted that theater is a great way to make lasting friendships and memories.
Joseph Green, Novi Middle School’s assistant auditorium manager, is proud of the joint effort between himself and director Lori Burkhardt to select a play that entertainingly incorporates STEM subjects. Working with such a wide range of periods and settings has undoubtedly been one of the most challenging aspects. Still, Green hopes their hard work will inspire audiences to appreciate the arts and gain an eagerness to learn and explore new ideas.
The show will be performed at the Novi Middle School auditorium at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 3. Tickets cost $10, and students will also host a food drive at that time, with canned food donations welcomed as an additional way to show support.
