News Summary
This spring, Estancia High School (EHS) is set to showcase the beloved musical ‘Little Shop of Horrors.’ Taking place over three nights, it marks the final production before EHS transitions to a new $42 million performing arts complex. Students are excited to bring their talents to the stage, highlighting their dedication and hard work. The community is also pushing to honor past theater icons by naming the new facility after them. Get your tickets for this thrilling performance and witness the bright future of EHS’s performing arts program.
Costa Mesa’s School Scene Dazzles with “Little Shop of Horrors”
This spring, Costa Mesa is buzzing with excitement as Estancia High School (EHS) gears up for its final production of the 2024-25 theater season. This year, the students are putting on the beloved musical “Little Shop of Horrors”, promising audiences an unforgettable experience as they showcase their hard work and talent.
All Eyes on the Stage
The musical, being performed at Costa Mesa High School, will run for three thrilling nights and wraps up with a matinee on Sunday. This exciting performance stands out for being the last time EHS students will take the stage at what has been dubbed a “substitute stage.” For more than 20 years, there has been a promise to provide equal performing opportunities for students at Estancia compared to other schools in the Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD). But fear not, the wait will soon be over!
A New Era for Performing Arts
Things are about to get a whole lot better for EHS performers as they prepare to move into a shiny new $42 million performing arts complex. Currently nearing completion on the Costa Mesa campus, this state-of-the-art venue is set to open just in time for the fall classes. The new complex includes an 18,270-square-foot building featuring a spacious 350-seat main theater, a black box theater, classrooms, a dressing room, and staging areas. The students are absolutely buzzing with excitement about transitioning from their cozy but smaller Barbara Van Holt Theater to this modern facility.
Rising Stars Shine Bright
In the spotlight of “Little Shop of Horrors,” junior Keila Mendez is taking on the iconic role of Audrey. She and her fellow cast members can barely contain their enthusiasm about bringing their talents to the new complex next year, which promises to enhance their performances even further.
However, it’s bittersweet for senior Asher Dennee, who plays Seymour. As he gears up for his next chapter at Orange Coast College, he carries the weight of knowing he will miss out on the grand opening of the new building. Still, he exudes pride for his fellow cast members and all that they have accomplished under the leadership of their dedicated teacher Amber Reyes.
Honoring a Legacy
A big part of the EHS theater program’s foundation began with the legendary Barbara Van Holt, who started the program back in the 1960s and left a lasting mark on students until her passing in 2022. The community has also rallied to honor another prominent figure, Pauline Maranian, who succeeded Van Holt and directed the program for an impressive 26 years. To memorialize their contributions, there is an active push to name the new performing arts complex after one or both of these notable figures. Community members are encouraged to submit their recommendations to the Newport-Mesa Unified School District Board of Trustees for consideration.
Get Your Tickets!
As for “Little Shop of Horrors,” the show kicked off its opening night on Thursday and continues until Saturday at 7 p.m., with a final matinee on Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are priced reasonably at $15 for general admission and $10 for student tickets. They can be purchased online at estanciadrama.com or with cash at the door.
Do not miss out on witnessing the talent and passion of these young performers as they dazzle the Costa Mesa community! This spring show is more than just a performance; it symbolizes a bright future ahead as EHS prepares for the grand opening of its long-awaited performing arts complex.
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Additional Resources
- LA Times: Estancia Drama Students Host Final Off-Site Production
- OC Register: Orange County High School Artist of the Year 2025 Nominees
- CBS News: Costa Mesa High Drama Teacher Charged
- Wikipedia: Performing Arts
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Theater
