W.F. West High School in Chehalis will present the musical “Beetlejuice” as a farewell production for theater director Brian Adams, who is retiring after 30 years and 50 productions. The show will run on December 12, 13, 19, and 20, with performances scheduled for 19:30 and an additional matinee at 14:00 on December 20. Adams expressed a desire for “new blood” in the program, feeling that the time has come for him to step away.
Before announcing his retirement, Adams secured the rights for W.F. West to stage “Beetlejuice,” a musical adaptation of the beloved 1988 Tim Burton film. He said, “I know the movie gets a little weird, but the musical is quite different.” The vibrant costumes and catchy music caught his attention, making it a fitting choice for his final production.
The story of “Beetlejuice” revolves around a deceased couple who seek the help of a mischievous ghost, Betelgeuse, to haunt the new residents of their former home. Lydia, a young girl coping with her mother’s death and her father’s neglect, is one of the new inhabitants. Senior Ruby Stanton, who portrays Lydia, remarked on the real-life themes explored in the musical, stating, “These are things that happen in real life, which I really enjoy that it’s being told in a show.”
Junior Charlotte Calway, cast as Lydia’s stepmother, shared her personal connection to her character. She noted, “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.”
Senior Justin Hazlett, who has long aspired to play Betelgeuse, described the character as “wacky, zany, and very loud.” He expressed his enthusiasm about landing the role, saying, “It really just let me find myself.”
Following the conclusion of “Beetlejuice,” Adams plans to remain involved with the school as a coach and counselor, ensuring his presence in the theater program continues. “I want to be a part of it, like a consultant. I will be a consultant for anybody,” he stated. He also encouraged potential candidates to apply for the director position when it becomes available early next year. “We’ve built a strong program here over 30 years, and I don’t want it to die,” Adams added.
The production includes a warning for flashing, strobe, and laser lights throughout the performance. Tickets are priced at $9 and can be purchased at the W.F. West ASB Office by calling 360-807-7235. Additionally, tickets will be available at the door if still in stock.
Performances will take place at the W.F. West High School Theatre, located at 342 SW 16th Street, Chehalis, with the entrance situated near the Coach Jack State Memorial Tennis Courts.
The cast features a talented group of students, including:
– Lydia Deetz: Ruby Stanton
– Beetlejuice: Justin Hazlett
– Charles Deetz: Jonah Layton
– Barbara Maitland: Asha Tummeti
– Adam Maitland: Landon Schow
– Delia Schlimmer: Charlotte Calway
– Miss Argentina: Savannah Bryant
– Otho/Priest: Aaron Woods
– Sky/Mourner/Cheerleader/Bride: Hope Shields
– Juno/Mourner/Cheerleader/Beetlejuice Clone: Hailey Sturdevant
– Maxine Dean/Mourner/Mobster: Ainsley Smith
The stage crew consists of many dedicated students who contribute to the production’s success.
As W.F. West prepares to bid farewell to a dedicated director, the community looks forward to a vibrant and entertaining performance of “Beetlejuice.”
