PDHS ‘Puffs’ set to cast a spell on audiences

Cast members bring energy and humour to a rehearsal of Puffs at Paris District High School, fine-tuning scenes ahead of opening night.

Casandra Turnbull

Managing Editor

Magic, mischief and a fresh twist on a familiar wizarding world are coming to the stage at Paris District High School, as the school’s drama club prepares to present Puffs; Or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic later this month.

The comedic play offers an underdog perspective on a well-known magical story, focusing not on the famous hero, but on the overlooked students navigating their own journey through seven years at a wizarding school.

“Puffs is the underdog story, it follows the perspective of a different house at a certain wizard school, where a particular wizard boy attends but this isn’t his story,” said PDHS Drama Club teacher Kaitlyn Bishop. “It is about the other guys, their journey through the 7 years and how they continue to be proud of their accomplishments even if it is fourth place.”

Bishop said the production has grown into a full-school effort, with approximately 20 students in the cast and 15 crew members supporting the show behind the scenes. Students have taken on leadership roles, including student director Alexander Champagne and stage manager Brianna Montemayor. Others in Mr. Gumulak’s class contributed through set construction, Evelyn Sibbick lent her sewing talents to costume design and the Learning Commons staff hosted a ‘Wand Workshop’ where several classes and cast members came together to create wands for the production.

“It becomes a whole school production in the final months as we come together to bring Puffs to the stage,” Bishop said. “Theatre gives everyone the opportunity to be involved.”

Rehearsals began in late September, with students balancing long practices alongside schoolwork, athletics and part-time jobs. In recent weeks, the cast has committed to extended rehearsals to bring the ambitious production to life.

“They have learned time management, commitment and how to work with others,” Bishop said. “My favourite part of the production process is the friends and memories made along the way, and I love how all the grade levels come together to create these friendships. Drama Club is a family.”

Despite working with a limited budget, the production promises imaginative staging and creative effects, including magical creatures and inventive props designed to bring the story’s chaotic humour to life.

“That’s what makes the play entertaining, the chaotic writing, creative staging and comedic props,” Bishop said.

Among the standout contributors are Montemayor, praised for her organization and leadership on the production side, and Grade 12 students Aurora Saulinier and Thomas Whitney, who play key roles in guiding and energizing the performance.

Audiences can expect a fast-paced comedy filled with recognizable themes, playful surprises and plenty of audience engagement.

“Audiences can expect to see some familiar themes, stories and characters from the much-loved series,” said Bishop. “It is important to note, that this show is in no way affiliate with J.K. Rowling or the franchise with Warner Bros., so you will notice some changes.”

At the end of the day, Bishop describes it as most definitely a comedy, where audiences will be entertained, maybe involved, and will be sure to leave cheering for the Puffs!” Bishop said.

In addition to showcasing student talent, the production will also support a longer-term goal: improving lighting and technical capabilities in the school’s small gym, where performances are held. Donations will be accepted at each show to help fund upgrades.

“We are making do with what we have but it is not an ideal set up,” Bishop said. “Hopefully as the drama department continues to grow and be such a positive part of the Paris Community, we can improve the space as well.”

To help facilitation that goal, there will be a donation box and signage out each production for those who wish to donate towards the project. 

Performances will run April 30 and May 1 at 7 p.m., with matinees on May 2 and 3 at 1 p.m. A daytime performance on April 29 will be offered to local elementary schools. Tickets are $10 and available at the door. Debit will be available for an extra fee.