With its ‘90s references, special effects and a positive message about being unique, audiences of all ages will be entertained by MN Drama’s production of Puffs. Opening December 14th, Puffs is a hilarious parody of a certain book series by a certain English author (that shall not be named) and offers a new perspective about a familiar story. It’s not about a certain boy wizard who went to a certain wizard school. This is a story about three potential heroes who simply want to learn how to be wizards.
An original play written by New York playwright Matt Cox, Puffs debuted in 2015 Off-Broadway and received rave reviews. The New York Times called it “a fast-paced romp through the Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic.”
MN Drama’s production of Puffs is directed by Brian Walsh and produced by Tiffany Caprice and features more than 80
Marple Newtown High School (MNHS) students as actors and stage crew members.
Brian explained what is unique about the production is that the actors get to play several roles. “It’s a great learning opportunity for the students to learn how to quickly switch from one comedic role to another,” he said. Brian has been directing Marple Newtown students since 2015. A fifth-grade teacher in the Upper Darby School district, he is currently working towards earning his Principal certificate at West Chester University. Brian is a Drexel Hill native, and he’s been actively involved in Upper Darby Summer Stage for many years as a director, working with elementary-aged students.
Executive Producer Tiffany Caprice has previously worked with MNHS students on their productions of Dracula, Matilda, Clue and the Addams Family. A 2006 graduate of MNHS, she was active in the drama program as a member of the stage crew, and she especially loved producing one-act plays. After high school, Tiffany gained extensive experience working in Los Angeles in the film and advertising industries. She is currently an executive producer with WTP Pictures, a production company that merges entertainment with advertising.
What drew Brian and Tiffany to Puffs was not just the quirky characters but the message it brings to the audience. “It’s a story about going to school and trying to make friends,” explained Brian. “It’s a heartfelt story that everyone can relate to.” Puffs takes place in the 1990s, and those of us who grew up in that era will appreciate the references to AOL, NSync and Free Willy.
Freshman Kayden Braegger plays the role of Wayne, a regular boy who finds out he’s a wizard. Sound familiar? But Wayne is a Puff and he and the other Puffs just want to learn how to be wizards and not be attacked by evil wizards. The show follows them through seven years of puberty, anxiety, school exams and other challenges of being teenage wizards. Kayden, who has performed in plays such as Shrek, The Descendants and High School Musical, said that it has been fun to play the hero. “Wayne is really an upbeat character,” he said. “It’s a great experience to play a character who loves being the center of attention.”
Oliver, one of Wayne’s best friends, is played by Gage Grace. Gage has had roles in several MN Drama productions including Peter and the Starcatcher, Clue and the Addams Family. As for the role of Oliver, Gage said he found the character very relatable. “He’s very awkward, which makes him fun to play,” he said. “But the best part is playing someone who gets to goof around and just have fun with his friends!”
During the production of all of their shows, Brian and Tiffany always want to teach and inspire the students. Members of MN Drama are able to meet professional actors, attend workshops and work with dialect coaches. This year, they were given the opportunity to meet and speak with Puff’s writer, Matt Cox. “We really want to give the Marple drama students a bigger, better and memorable experience,” Tiffany said.
MN Drama hosts two productions a year on the main stage as well as a “dinner theater” style show in the school cafeteria each year. Students in grades 9-12 are welcome to audition for these productions or to sign up to be part of one of the technical crews, assistant positions or the live pit orchestra.
Giving the cast and crew these memorable experiences would not be possible without the help of the MN Parents Guild, who are instrumental in fundraising for the MN Drama Program. The guild’s primary goal is to promote, support and elevate theatrical experiences through workshops and production enhancements.
The annual Murder Mystery Brunch held in November serves as a fundraiser through ticket sales and raffles. Last month audiences enjoyed Poof: A Deadly Disappearance while enjoying breakfast. “The Murder Mystery not only raises money so the students can have these unique learning experiences, it’s also a chance for students to practice their acting skills,” said Brian.
MN Drama’s 2023-2024 season is underway, and they look forward to welcoming audiences to Puffs! No matter what your relationship to the Harry Potter series, there is something for everyone. Aside from wizard and non-wizard-related jokes, Puffs is full of heart. Performances begin December 14 and run through Saturday, December 16. Visit MNDrama.org for show times and ticket information.