Students perform Shakespeare at Hofstra

Students in a Valley Stream Central High School District after-school acting program performed three scenes from William Shakespeare’s “Titus Andronicus” at Hofstra University on Feb. 25.

“They put on an outstanding performance, and represented Central with enthusiasm, maturity and grace,” said Fine and Performing Arts Program teacher Elizabeth Kott.

The members of the high school’s Acting Concentration began work on the performance in December, and competed against Division Avenue High School, Wantagh High School and Calhoun High School. Students dedicated a great deal of time and effort to understanding the text, decoding the Shakespearian language and portraying characters that connected with one another in the world of the play.

Junior Walter Alvarez was honored with the Best Actor award for his characterization of Marcus Andronicus. Members from the programs also competed in the areas of set and costume design. Participants included Celine Bancone, Sahrina Bullock, Nicole Cevada, Isaac Cruz, Tony Enderica, Andrew Fare, Erin Ford, Sara Guagliano, Jalani Johnson, Riya Kaur, Ogechi Okoko, Michele-Christina Pennycooke, Anastacia Pereira, Diamond Peterson, Emilie Pierre-Paul, Julienne Poitevien, Krystal Rivera, Kaith Silva, Shadae Simpson and Wendy Stallings.