Local drama opens ‘lines’ of creativity for thespians

The Directors Dozen has whipped up a never before seen historical fiction play called Lines of Courage for local theater fanatics. Based on the book by Jennifer A. Nielsen, high school senior Rebekah Birschbach transposed the World War One novel into a heartfelt stage production, played by a band of talented high school performers. The production took to the stage on November 9 at the Time Community Theater on 445 N. Main Street in Oshkosh.

Lines of Courage began on paper, and Birschbach strove to display the same message and emotion on stage.

“I took a lot of time condensing the 400-page book down into a play; it was tricky deciding what parts and pieces of information were the most important to keep,” she said.

While some might have found it a tedious process, Birschbach took pride in bringing new life to the beloved novel.

“The writing process took me about two-three weeks, but I enjoyed it so it didn't feel like working,” she said.

The two hour play follows the stories of teenagers living in the midst of World War I. Each character come from different countries and social backgrounds, but their stories tangle together in a journey of survival, hope, and courage. Lines leaves audiences with a new found perspective on the innocent lives affected by war and the importance of staying strong even through difficult times. 

Freshman actor Gabriella Weise enjoyed diving into the historical context of the play and finding new messages in old lessons.

“The play taught me that even if there is a wrong or right side of war, there are still innocent people on both sides and you should always look at the bigger picture,” she said.

Lines of Courage unpacked the harsh realities of being a teen during such a troubling time, which brought out its message even more.

“It’s important to remember that ultimately, all the characters in the story were kids who had survived terrible things,” Weise said. 

Sophomore stage crew member Stella Schwersenska enjoyed learning more about a period in history that isn’t taught as much in school.

“A lot of times we focus on other parts of history like WWII, and we don't hear much about WWI” she said.

The play brought light to voices that have been otherwise left in the dark by representing a multitude of different characters.

“It’s important to hear all the different perspectives of people from different countries,” Schwersenska said.

Birschbach chose to focus on such a big topic because the book spoke to her, and its message still rings true today. 

“Even though it is a fictional story, just seeing how each character could show courage in their own way and support the people around them despite their young age was really powerful,” she said.

The production itself consisted of a cast of 10 high school students from around the Oshkosh area, many of whom already knew each other from youth groups and former productions. 

Weise enjoyed the intimate cast and relished her first experience as strictly an actor, rather than her accustomed musical presence on stage.

“It was a really small cast and the first play I have done; it was fun because the cast was filled with my close friends,” she said.

The close knit cast had to adjust to take on the large body of work, demanding commitment in production.

“A lot of people were playing multiple roles, even leads, and it was a lot of work, each actor had over 100 lines,” Schwersenska said. 

Not only were actors working overtime on stage, but behind where the audience could see. Schwersenska experienced unique challenges in the performance space.

“The stage at the Time had little pockets of a backstage covered with curtains, about as big as a walk-in closet,” she said.

The production transported the audience from 1914 through the end of the conflict in 1918. Backstage, the cast and crew had to work together to keep all the set pieces moving with the space they had. 

“We had to figure out how to store the set and where we were going to put props and bigger pieces of set with such a small space,” Schwersenska said. 

Birschbach was met with extra challenges that come with creating a show from the ground up.

“I had to do things like making fliers and programs, coordinating with Time Theater, making plans, getting all the props, costumes, and sets,” she said.

However, the challenges pushed the cast to work even harder, resulting in the culmination on performance night. Freshman audience member Sophie Johnson appreciated the dedication of the actors and the interesting story line.

“It was a very meaningful story about WWI and all the actors were very good and stayed in character the whole time,” she said.

The seats at the Time theater were filled with community members that enjoyed similar interests as Birschbach. Fans of history, theater, and of course the friends and family of the actors, came to support the production. For junior Aurora Framnes, uplifting the talents of her friends piqued her interest in the show.

“My friends drew me in, I like to come watch them and support their passions,” she said.

Framnes may not be involved in theater herself, but she still has a deep appreciation for the art.

“I would recommend seeing the show because it’s a new experience and it’s fun to watch live theater,” she said.

Before Birschbach took to writing plays, she enjoyed starring in them. Her childhood memories on stage encouraged her to keep going through writer’s block and long nights at the computer.

“It stemmed from my love of acting and being inspired by my directors that have had a huge impact on my life; I wanted to impact others the same way they impacted me,” she said.

Birschbach’s message extends beyond the themes found in Lines of Courage and she hopes that young actors can take inspiration from the play to start their own creative journeys. 

“If I had been too scared to try, I wouldn’t have discovered this part of myself that has brought me so much joy and fulfillment in life,” she said.

by Delaney Smith

Published December 2nd, 2024

Oshkosh West Index Volume 121 Issue III