The echoes of an impact drill mask the true artistic work as Murry “Jr.” Hughes creates the set and indeed the entire staging area for the April 29 premiere of, “The Trip to Bountiful,” at Patrick County High School.
What began as support for his daughter Cheyenne’s theatre arts productions has transformed into four years of caring for the students on the stage of the high school.
Theatre arts teacher, Mark Donnell noted, “Audiences have seen his work in creating sets for every play since ‘The Diary of Anne Frank,’ and probably not realized the importance Mr. Hughes places in safety for both actors and audience members. Even the audience seating is placed on carefully constructed and tested platforms designed for the best, safe viewing possible.”
His work goes beyond construction as he creates an environment with details from front porch swings to secret door latches which cause actors to become more than believable characters on the high school stage
When asked why he volunteers literally hours of time after he completes his full schedule as a Ten Oaks employee Hughes said, “I do it for the kids. Seeing their work and how much they care is enough for me.”
Every cast and crew member is thankful for his caring. Audiences are simply amazed.
The public will have the privilege to experience Hughes’ work as he collaborates with the cast and production crew of, “The Trip to Bountiful,” for three performances Friday and Saturday, April 29 and 30 at 7:01 p.m. and Sunday, May 1 at 3:01 p.m. in the PCHS auditorium. Tickets are $5 for students, $10 for adults. Seating is limited and reservations are encouraged. Call (276) 694-7137.
