Brian Adams, after three decades of directing theater at W.F. West High School, is set to conclude his career with the winter musical “Beetlejuice.” The production, inspired by the 1988 Tim Burton film, will close its run later this month, marking a significant transition for both Adams and the school’s theater program.
Adams, who has overseen approximately 50 productions during his tenure, expressed his desire to step back, stating, “I still have it in me, but I think it’s time for some new blood.” His decision comes as he prepares to retire from an influential role that he has held since the program’s inception.
Before finalizing his retirement plans, Adams ensured that W.F. West would have the opportunity to perform “Beetlejuice” once it became available for high school productions. He noted the appeal of the musical’s vibrant costumes and catchy soundtrack, saying, “I know the movie gets a little weird, but the musical is quite different.”
With the timing of the production coinciding with his planned retirement, Adams views this show as a fitting conclusion to his directorial career. He remarked, “It was a good one to go out on.” The story centers around a deceased couple attempting to haunt their former home while enlisting the help of the mischievous ghost Betelgeuse. The narrative also explores themes of grief and family dynamics through the character of Lydia, a young girl navigating her mother’s death and her father’s neglect.
W.F. West senior Ruby Stanton, who portrays Lydia, appreciates the real-life challenges depicted in the story. She stated, “These are things that happen in real life, which I really enjoy that it’s being told in a show.”
Junior Charlotte Calway, playing Lydia’s stepmother, found personal connections to her character. “He’s done it a lot better than my character has done it, but I really honor that and now I’m seeing it in a whole different light,” she explained.
Senior Justin Hazlett has long aspired to play the character of Betelgeuse, a role he describes as “wacky, zany, and very loud.” He expressed his excitement at landing the part, noting that the experience has allowed him to explore his own interpretation of the character. “It really just let me find myself,” Hazlett said.
After “Beetlejuice” concludes, Adams will remain involved with the school as a coach and counselor. He emphasized his commitment to the program, stating, “I want to be a part of it, like a consultant. I will be a consultant for anybody.” He encourages anyone interested in continuing the theater program to apply for the director position when it becomes available early next year. “We’ve built a strong program in here over 30 years, and I don’t want it to die,” he added.
The performances of “Beetlejuice” are scheduled for December 12, 13, 19, and 20, 2023, at 7:30 p.m., with an additional matinee at 2 p.m. on December 20. A photosensitivity warning is in effect due to flashing, strobe, and laser lights used throughout the show.
Tickets are priced at $9 each and can be purchased by calling the W.F. West ASB Office at 360-807-7235. They will also be available at the door, subject to availability. The performances will take place at the W.F. West High School Theatre, located at 342 SW 16th Street, Chehalis, with the entrance near the Coach Jack State Memorial Tennis Courts.
The cast includes talented students such as:
– Lydia Deetz: Ruby Stanton
– Beetlejuice: Justin Hazlett
– Charles Deetz: Jonah Layton
– Barbara Maitland: Asha Tummeti
– Adam Maitland: Landon Schow
– Delia Schlimmer: Charlotte Calway
Adams’s legacy at W.F. West High School will undoubtedly be felt long after the curtains close on “Beetlejuice.”
