DOWNEY - Crazy and kooky are the best words to describe Downey High School's latest drama production "Run for the Money" set to premiere Tuesday at 7 p.m."It's a really fast-paced screwball comedy," said drama instructor Lars Hansen. "Run for the Money" is a story of greedy people who do not learn from their mistakes. After the death of a family member, the main characters each want their cut of the money. The characters end up playing a game in which they must decipher clues to find their inheritance. The play will run from June 2-6 at 7 p.m. each night. Tickets are $6 presale and $8 at the door. Tickets may be purchased from Downey's ASB window or by contacting Hansen at lhansen@dusd.net. This will be the first production in Downey High's new theater, which seats 235. The theater has many perks, including high-tech lighting and sound systems. The larger theater also allowed for more elaborate set designs. Hansen, who has been teaching drama at Downey for five years, said he is still working with the cast to figure out how everything works and to get used to the feeling of performing in front of a larger audience. Callie Cook has been acting since elementary school and has participated in three plays at Downey. She said the play is, "Wacky. It's very different and has a lot of humor." "I wanted to do something that was light and easy to get kids involved in," Hansen said. "Run for the Money" features many students who are not enrolled in any drama classes. Hansen described this play as a great opportunity to use the new stage and get more kids involved in drama.

********** Published: May 29, 2009 - Volume 8 - Issue 6