Huntington Beach Academy Unveils ‘A Monster Calls’

News Summary

The Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts presents its latest production, ‘A Monster Calls’, exploring themes of loss and grief through the story of young Conor O’Malley. Directed by Jenny McClintock, the play features poignant performances and innovative stage design, while aiming to foster connections and open conversations among audiences about coping with grief. Proceeds from the show will benefit Fran’s Place Center for Cancer Counseling, extending the impact of the narrative beyond the stage.

Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts Debuts Gripping Production of “A Monster Calls”

In a heartwarming yet emotionally charged moment for the community, the Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts is set to roll out its latest production, A Monster Calls, which makes a bold statement on the profound themes of loss and grief. Adapted from the stirring 2011 novel by Patrick Ness, the play centers around young Conor O’Malley as he navigates the traumatic experience of his mother’s battle with cancer.

The nature of this production delves deep into the emotional struggles that many face during such trying times. Conor’s journey is portrayed with the help of a towering monster, symbolizing the turmoil within him as he learns about the importance of honesty and storytelling in confronting harsh realities. Director Jenny McClintock describes the show as a compelling exploration of time’s unyielding nature, drawing critical parallels between the challenges of understanding life’s fleeting moments and the difficulty of accepting loss.

Don’t Miss Out on This Emotional Journey

Running for four performances starting Thursday at the Huntington Beach Union High School District auditorium, viewers can expect a striking portrayal of Conor as performed by sophomore Antonio Lopez. Following a deeply personal path after losing his own mother to breast cancer last August, this role serves as a pivotal point for Lopez, who utilizes acting as a means to navigate his own processes of grief.

This contemporary adaptation maintains the academy’s tradition of tackling diverse plays— transitioning from Shakespeare to Greek theater— while embracing modern storytelling techniques. The intentionally sparse stage design mirrors Conor’s internal struggles, visually representing the heaviness of his grief as his mother’s health deteriorates.

Costumes and Stage Design That Speak Volumes

With costumes designed in muted tones of beige and red, the emotional landscape of the play comes to life. The use of red is particularly striking, potentially embodying the nightmares that accompany Conor’s journey. The actors remain on stage throughout the performance, a choice that creates an immersive connection with the audience and reflects the ongoing nature of Conor’s challenges.

A standout feature of this production is the portrayal of the monster— a large yew tree— that visits Conor at night. Performed by Cameron Mullin, the monster embodies Conor’s grief as well as his future self, creating a powerful connection that resonates deeply with both patients and families dealing with similar experiences.

A Personal Touch from the Director

With an added personal touch, McClintock enlisted her twin children to portray “young Conor,” deepening the emotional reach of the story. Together, the cast will explore themes that invite audiences, especially younger viewers, to confront and understand grief in a supportive environment. The production aims to foster connections and open conversations that can heal.

In Support of a Good Cause

To further its mission, proceeds from the show will be directed towards Fran’s Place Center for Cancer Counseling in Brea, ensuring that the themes of the production resonate beyond the stage and into the lives of those affected by cancer. This initiative, intertwined with the emotional weight of the narrative, serves as a reminder that art can provoke awareness and encourage support in meaningful ways.

Don’t miss out on this unique experience. Tickets for A Monster Calls can be purchased through the academy’s website. Join the Huntington Beach community in what promises to be an unforgettable exploration of love, loss, and the tangled web of life.

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Additional Resources

• Los Angeles Times: Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
• Wikipedia: Grief
• Los Angeles Times: Trial Begins for Man Accused of Abusing and Killing Girlfriend
• Google Search: Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
• AOL: Summer House Recap
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Performing Arts
• Los Angeles Times: Huntington Beach City Council Calls for Ordinance
• Google News: Huntington Beach News