After receiving the marvelous reviews from the debut performance last year, Addicted is being brought back by school psychologist Ms. Christle Henzel with the help of Drama 3 students.

“Addicted is a story about three young adults who struggle with alcohol and drug addiction. The characters and their stories shed light on the reality of drug and alcohol use and the negative consequences that occur as a result,” explained Henzel.

Henzel, the writer and director of the show, held auditions for the show in early February, at which time 15-20 Drama 3 students auditioned for roles.

Green states that rehearsals for Addicted are in class and after school; progress checks are frequent in Green’s class and are recorded as class grades.

“The show really spreads a good message and is getting a lot of good political attention,” stated senior cast member Alec Presley.

Other students who are involved include seniors Sarah Chamberlain, Sam Piccirilli, Katie Bemb, Brittany Hadaway, Noah League, Nick Giannasca, and Holly Ciampaglio.

Prior to rehearsal, students had to get approval from their parents to audition and read the script. Drama 3 students that weren’t in Addicted also had to get permission slips signed by their parents in order to watch the in-class rehearsals.

“Rehearsals for this show have been a lot of fun, and it’s important because the topic we’re performing needs a lot of attention. I think it is a great cause and people should try their best to come out and see it,” stated Giannasca, who will be portraying a character who is addicted to heroin.

According to Green, all NHHS students in attendance will need to bring a parent due to the mature content of this subject matter. Preparation for this show has been in motion since last year, as Henzel has been revising the script.

“There are so many technical aspects of the play that require a lot of time and effort to put together,” said Henzel. “Most of the actors and actresses are not only in Addicted but are also in another school play called Get Smart. This just makes rehearsals challenging as we don’t always have all performers at once. Regardless, I am confident that it will all come together in the end.”

Despite this setback, the show hasn’t lost its purpose. Henzel emphasized that this show is really important to bring back.

“Drug and alcohol use is prevalent among teenagers in the U.S. today,” explained Henzel. “The effects of the alcohol use can be devastating both to the user and to their families. This show is important to bring back because students and families can become aware of these effects and how devastating they can become.”

Green describes the play as amazing, powerful, and brutally honest.

“I believe that today in everyone’s lives an addiction of some kind has touched them, and in that sense this show speaks to all viewers,” said Green.

Green also mentioned that this is one of the bravest works in theater that she has seen in a long time.

“I hope that students who are affected by an addiction see this and are motivated to change because of this one brave work. I feel strongly that every student should truly see it,” stated Green.

 Addicted will be performed in the NH auditorium May 8 and 9 free of charge.