An original play written by Tappan Zee High School junior Hela Giaever has been selected for the Stephen H. Grant Student Playwrights Festival conducted by the Penguin Rep Theatre and the Phoenix Theatre Ensemble!
“Right Under Your Nose,” Giaever’s play, is a drama that centers on family dynamics, disclosure and control in the aftermath of a child’s disappearance. She cites current events as a source of inspiration and seeks to bring attention to important issues through her work. With “Right Under Your Nose,” Giaever hopes that the audience will “see that not accepting your children for who they are has consequences.” “You may lose them,” she said.
Giaever’s journey began with screen acting. She got her start performing in a short film before joining a casting platform, through which she landed roles in college students’ productions. Eventually, she began screenwriting and filmmaking original projects. Learning about the Penguin Rep Theatre Festival motivated her to try her hand as a playwright.
“I like creating interesting stories…and it helped to have a deadline,” Giaever laughed. She intends to continue to develop her writing and explore other aspects of film and theater.
Giaever is one of just four local high school students whose 10-minute plays will be read by professional actors before a live audience at the Penguin Rep Theatre on May 30 at 7PM. The readings will be followed by a discussion with the young writers, who will be awarded a monetary stipend and certificate acknowledging their artistic accomplishment.
Congratulations, Hela!