CONNECTION … Adaleia Moore, portraying Cherry, shares a quiet moment with Ponyboy as the two characters connect.
FALL PLAY … Arend Schuurman as Ponyboy and Lynley Day-Hemenway portraying Johnny reflect after an intense scene.
POWERFUL SCENE … Grace Schuurman, Arend Schuurman and Gyllyan Proper share a heartfelt scene as the Curtis brothers.
SHINING ONSTAGE … Lynley-Day Hemenway as Johnny delivers the final monologue reciting the famous words “Stay gold, Ponyboy.”
By: Rebekah Dell
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
Hilltop High School students took the stage last weekend to tell a story that has been touching hearts for generations. With performances on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday their fall play, The Outsiders, brought S.E. Hinton’s classic novel to life with raw emotion and heartfelt performances.
Originally written by Hinton when she was just 16 years old, The Outsiders has become one of the most well-known coming-of-age stories of all time.
Set in 1960s Tulsa, The Outsiders follows Ponyboy Curtis and his friends, a tight-knit group of “Greasers” who stick together through thick and thin.
It is a story about friendship, loss, and growing up in a world that is cruel and unfair. Judging by the energy on stage, Hilltop’s cast understood that message completely.
Directed by Elizabeth Horton, the production featured a talented group of students both on stage and behind the scenes.
From the intensity of the rumble scene to quiet moments of reflection, the cast captured the heart of Hinton’s story and reminded the audience why “staying gold” still matters.
Arend Schuurman shone as Ponyboy Curtis, the quintessential 1960s greaser. From his hand gestures to his walk and even his accent, every detail felt authentic.
His performance was powerful and full of emotion, capturing Ponyboy’s sensitivity and inner conflict.
Lynley Day-Hemenway amazed the audience as Johnny Cade, lending herself beautifully to the role of a neglected Greaser who never quite feels good enough. Her final monologue was heartfelt and tear-jerking, leaving many in the audience visibly moved.
As Dallas, Addison Vance-Zuver brought humor and grit to the stage, playing the tough-guy role with charm and good comedic timing even in serious moments.
Adaleia Moore portrayed Cherry as a strong yet compassionate character who drew out Ponyboy’s emotional side and highlighted the tension between their two worlds.
Aiden Stevens gave a lively and memorable performance as Two-Bit, the lovable troublemaker who kept things light even in difficult moments. Gyllyan Proper, as Darry, balanced strength and care as the older brother trying to keep his family together.
Grace Schuurman took on the role of Sodapop, adding warmth to the Curtis family dynamic, while Savannah Thompson played Sandy with grace and emotion.
“This marks my fifth year directing our seniors, one of whom is my son, and I have cherished every moment with them,” said Director Elizabeth Horton.
“Seeing where they began and how far they’ve come has been truly amazing. This production has revealed the entire cast’s raw emotional side in the most powerful and impressive way.
“I’ve been blown away by their dedication and talent in bringing such serious content to life. To the entire cast and crew, you will always hold a special place in my heart. As always, it has been my absolute pleasure to be in your presence.”
The audience responded with laughter, cheers, and heartfelt applause throughout the evening. Several audience members rose for a standing ovation as the cast took their final bows, a sign of appreciation for the students’ hard work and heartfelt performances.
The set, costumes, and lighting all worked together to pull the audience straight into the 1960s. The crew made smart use of both sides of the stage to allow for quick and seamless set changes.
While the audience’s attention was drawn to one side where actors performed, the next scene was quietly set up on the other, keeping the show moving with very little downtime.
Lighting also played a key role in shaping the emotion of each scene. Red tones highlighted moments of intense emotions, while Johnny’s monologue was bathed in golden light that gave it a dreamlike quality.
The effect echoed the warmth and meaning of Robert Frost’s poem as Johnny delivered his famous line, “Stay gold, Ponyboy.”
Hilltop’s drama program continues to give students the chance to step outside their comfort zones, build confidence, and share meaningful stories with the community. The Outsiders was more than just a play. It was a reminder that even in tough times, friendship and hope can shine through.
As the students took their final bows, it was clear that The Outsiders was more than just another school play. It was a celebration of creativity, teamwork, and the tight-knit community that continues to cheer these students on every step of the way.
Hilltop High School once again proved that when talent, hard work, and community come together, the results are something truly special.
