Cappies: Wakefield's 'Growing Up' Captures Journey To Adulthood

By Miranda Simpson of McLean High School

ARLINGTON, VA — As individuals progress through their childhood and into the brand-new world of adulthood, they are forced to face the many twists and turns that were captured perfectly in Wakefield's production titled "Growing Up."

A student written and directed show, "Growing Up" was created by the students of Wakefield High School to express their ideas of what it means to grow up. Each monologue was written by the student performing it, adding a personal touch to the extremely relatable performances. "Growing Up" focused on the struggles of becoming an adult, and the concerns that come with facing one's future and leaving behind the innocence of youth.

Tamzin Folz was outstanding as not only an actress but also as a writer. She expressed the struggles of feeling like you're missing out on teenage experiences with the beautifully written performance, "Modern High School Love Story." Folz displayed her delicate emotions flawlessly, with a mix of lightheartedness and desperation that captured the essence of the piece perfectly. She acted alongside Isa Paley, performing the scenes "Get Yourself Together," "Please Leave," and "Blocked" about a destroyed friendship where both actors confronted each other about past events. The chemistry between the actors as they transitioned through feelings of anger to forgiveness was portrayed through heartfelt monologues and dialogue that showed that there were always more sides to the story.

Finally, Adrien Ulm, playing Nick, encapsulated the existential crisis that comes with growing up, repeating the phrase "I am a person." At the end of the show, Ulm was joined by the rest of the cast, and, contrasting his earlier monologue, confidently comforted the audience, leaving a message that we can make it and we can survive.

Melena Meek directed the show, giving the actors notes and direction that shaped the play into the seamless performance it became. Her well written monologues and help with the other cast members enhanced the show exponentially. The script supervisors, Tamzin Folz and Isa Paley, did a fabulous job of organizing and editing the script. The script flowed perfectly, and expressed many different aspects of growing up, the benefits and drawbacks, and the many concerns that take place as individuals are forced to leave their childhood behind them.

"Growing Up" was a relatable, unforgettable performance that proved that though aging may be scary, no one is alone, and everyone can get through it. With natural and genuine performances, "Growing Up" brought a sense of comfort to the terrifying idea of being forced to brave the world alone. The feel-good ending and the ability to forgive each other taught valuable life lessons that forced the audience to rethink their past feelings. Wakefield's production of "Growing Up" was wonderfully real and emotional, just like growing up itself.