By Paige Cooper `16, Staff Writer

Newark Academy prides itself on being an extremely comforting and supportive community. Last year, many conversations were held over thought-provoking topics such as sexuality, race, gender, and identity. Events such as the GSA’s Morning Meeting presentation, a presentation on micro-aggressions, and Dr. Michael Fowlin’s unforgettable assembly helped unite our school and brought out allies in our community. This year, students decided to continue the conversation by writing the Upper School fall drama, A Shortage of Quotes, based on day-to-day issues faced by Newark Academy students.

With the guidance of Mr. Jacoby and Ms. Addison, over twenty students sat down over the course of eight weeks and wrote scripts on matters that directly affected both peers and themselves. This type of creative work certainly requires a high level of maturity. When asked about any awkward moments, Valery Tarco `16 explained, “This feeling of being uncomfortable never made us not say something. We somehow managed to create an environment where everyone was open to sharing whatever they had to say, which was something extremely precious, as this environment can’t usually be created even in a room full of adults.” It is certainly rare to find a group of students that can discuss awkward, controversial issues and  proceed to write an entire play on them. Though Academy students are indeed teenagers and surely have a lot to learn, this particular situation speaks to the student body’s maturity and passion when delving into difficult subjects.

 Throughout the play, various themes of high school life were brought to the attention of the audience. Many serious issues were presented with humor, bringing levity to situations that could have otherwise been uncomfortable. Senior Grace Alofe, one featured member of the cast, explained how topics were chosen. She stated, “We had weeks to discuss the topics we felt were pertinent to our community. After some time, we noticed that there were some issues and themes that recurred. Those were the topics to inspire writing that eventually became a part of our production.” Much like Dr. Fowlin’s presentation last year, A Shortage of Quotes spoke directly to to the audience, giving them an understanding of what it is like to be a high school student and the “masks” that different individuals wear at our school. The show brought to light what would otherwise be considered marginal issues, which do not get enough attention. The audience realized that it is very possible to feel alienated at Newark Academy, and was left with the realization that every student has a unique story.

A Shortage of Quotes was unique not only in its maturity and relevance, but also in its accessibility. A Shortage of Quotes brought back conversations from last year, not only continuing the discussion, but also introducing relevant concerns to new students. The play covered issues that Middle School students could relate to, like pressure from parents, but also subjects that would apply more directly to students in the Upper School, such as sexuality and body image.

Though many topics were extensively covered, some were skated over. The majority of the play focused on race, while other issues, such as physical insecurities, economic background, and gender, could have been touched upon more thoroughly. Yet overall, the play helped put the various issues teenagers face at the forefront of audience members’ minds; the play was attended by parents, teachers, and other important members of the community.

The Newark Academy environment allows for conversations about significant teenage issues. The prevalence of these discussions indicates their importance in our school culture. While the school covered many challenges that teenagers face today, there are still some subjects that need more attention. Ultimately, however, the impact of the play will become evident based on the conversations that take place long after the performances; will it match Dr. Fowlin in creating a whole new standard of discussion? Only time will tell. Regardless, A Shortage of Quotes bridged last year’s weighty dialogues into this year, assuring that no issues will be dismissed in our community, and will hopefully encourage the continuation of such discussions well into the future.