By Tim J. Brennan
One Act Play Director

On Saturday, Jan. 25, Pacelli High School’s actors will compete in the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) One Act play competition. There is a change of venue this year as Pacelli has been shifted (due to school participation numbers) from Subsection 2 (Rochester Lourdes) to Subsection 4 (Triton High School). Six schools will  compete for two places and a trip to the section finals the following weekend in Kasson-Mantorville.

Pacelli’s entry “About Yesterday” has a cast of two: senior Rachel Nelsen and senior William Kahle. Senior Abbey Neve will serve as crew (set, music and lights).  The play is written and directed by Tim J. Brennan. 

Pacelli students, from left, William Kahle and Rachel Nelsen, rehearse lines for “About Yesterday.” Photos provided

The story revolves around ordinary guy Edwin (Kahle) and his conversations with God (Nelsen) about where Edwin is, what has recently happened in his life, and all the reasons for his very existence up to this point. And even God needs a respite now-and-then.

Many things are discussed between the two characters in a short period of time: marriage, life, death, the human condition, William Butler Yeats, and even our understanding of time. As God tells Edwin in one exchange: “It is time, Edwin. My time. And now … it’s your time.”

Pacelli students, from left, William Kahle and Rachel Nelsen, rehearse lines as crew member, Abbey Neve manages the scene.

Pacelli drama welcomes the public to an advanced Family-and-Friends showing of its play at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 23. It will be staged in the school auditorium. It’s free and open to everyone. Pacelli’s stage area offers comfortable seating, great sight lines and wonderful acoustics.

If you are interested in learning more about Pacelli Catholic Schools, please visit our website at www.pacellischools.org or email admin@pacellischools.org or call 507-437-3278 anytime during regular school hours.