NEWS

This month, Community School of Davidson adds a little magic to springtime with its production of "Puffs."

Wizards young and old will enjoy "Puffs or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic." Written by Matt Cox, this comedic take on the overlooked Hufflepuff House from the world of Harry Potter is sure to please. However, instead of telling the story of Harry, this story focuses on a nerdy student named Wayne (Max Thompson); Oliver Rivers, a math prodigy (Dane Davis); and Megan Jones (Kate Mayfield), a student struggling with a bad reputation. The result is a hilarious, yet heartfelt show.

“The play brilliantly pays homage to the iconic saga about the ‘the boy who lived,’ while most politely parodying it. The vast humor, from the in-your-face jokes to the more craftily disguised comedy, is balanced by the heart of the characters,” explains Erik D’Esterre, middle school arts instructor, high school technical theater, and design instructor at CSD.

From left, Max Thomson, Kate Mayfield, and Dane Davis star in Community School of Davidson’s production of Puffs. (Tammy Davis photo)

A co-worker initially suggested the play to D’Esterre, and after reading it, he was immediately drawn to the magical and hysterical world of the piece. The director loved the reach and appeal the play has to various communities. “The underlying theme of finding strength within oneself and the dependable coming-of-age formula are captivating messages to present,” he explains. “This story is really great for everyone, whether you grew up reading the Harry Potter books, have an affinity to 1990's pop culture and millennial references, or are just looking for good entertainment.”

The cast has 13 members, and there are 17 students working on the production staff and crew. D’Esterre says the staff and crew consist of student designers, operators, backstage technicians, and even a live band, while students in grades 8 through 12 have helped with aspects of the show, such as props and scenery.

“Puffs” is an entertaining piece with deep opportunity for veteran performers and audiences to enjoy, and it is an ideal entry level play for audiences who aren't accustomed to traditional theater to sample out their first experience of a live play,” says D’Esterre. “We all strive for audiences to connect and relate to the characters we see on the stage. As the Narrator (Tessa Fuller) so gamely puts it, ‘I think eventually we all find that little part of us - The Puff."

"Puffs" runs March 19-29 at Community School of Davidson Art Space, 404 Armour Street in Davidson. Performances are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 7 p.m.; Saturday 2 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door, but for best availability, purchase here.