Finding Truth in Summer: Ossining Drama Presents June July August

The cast and crew of Ossining High School Drama have found themselves in the Middle of Nowhere, Upstate New York navigating the trials and tribulations of junior camp staff in charge of Camp Timberwoods as they present “June July August,” written by Sinead Daly.

“It’s a really important story to tell,” said Director Drew DiRienzo. “That, and I think it’s a wonderful coming of age story and what we learn about the choices we make.”

The story follows junior camp counselors at an all-girls camp as they navigate the social hierarchies that have been established and how they respond when things get out of hand.

The cast is primary female, and Mr. DiRienzo said women voices drive the show, which was one of the many reasons the show spoke to him, and he thought would resonate with the cast and audience.

“It’s really a beautiful piece that the students connected with on a deeper level,” he said.

Senior Payton Almodovar, who is the co-president of the Drama Club and plays “Quinn” in the show, said while the piece is considered dramatic, it does have elements of comedy which adds some “light and life.”

“It’s a really good show,” she said. “We’ve worked so hard.”

For senior Dylan Alter, who plays Camp Director Radley, he said “it’s an incredible play and for everyone involved from the stage crew to sound, they have been working so hard to make the best final production.”

“As my last play, I am grateful to be a part of it,” Dylan said.

Fellow senior Saniya Fisher said she had never heard of the show before being cast as “Phoebe,” but familiarity with the piece is not required.

“I feel even if you know what the show is about, learning it is different,” she said, adding that everyone starts at the same place, with no set, having to learn their lines, and get used to props.

“It’s a fun experience,” she said. “Drama Club is really a family, there is no other place I’d rather be right now.”

Abi Morales said her character, “June,” is a very vulnerable individual, despite her outward persona of exhibiting self-control.

“I think she’s very strong, brave and nerdy,” Abi said. “It’s very challenging to be in a vulnerable state. Acting will always come from truth if you are good at it.”

The challenge for everyone involved in the production, Abi said, is the pressure they feel to put on a good show for those in the audience.

“It’s very hard work and needs a lot of perseverance,” she said. “The people here really want to put on a great show.”

“June July August" will be performed November 14-16, Ossining High School Auditorium, 29 S Highland Ave. Admission is free, the play is appropriate for ages 16 and up.