TALLULAH FALLS, Ga. — Tallulah Falls School’s middle school production of “Rotten Apples” brought together a wide range of students, staff, and faculty whose behind-the-scenes work helped deliver a lively, comedic performance inspired by “Clue” and classic fairy-tale characters.
The show featured extensive collaboration across campus. Performing Arts Director Jonathan Roberts assisted with lighting, art, and stage effects, while IT support specialist Galen Morris handled the audio setup and ran sound during the performance. Sophomores Steven Jackson and Brody Irvin contributed by building a castle set piece, and upper school music teacher Cailyn Cook guided theater arts students in painting the scenery.
With the stage set, seventh- and eighth-grade performers delivered what director Carrie Layer described as a “laugh-out-loud” production.
“I am really proud of them,” Layer said. “They really did an amazing job bringing their characters to life. They were a great group to work with.”
Layer said several cast members were acting for the first time and grew more confident
throughout rehearsals. She highlighted eighth-grader Isabella C. Diaz, who played the Big Bad Wolf. “The wolf revealed all the secrets at the end, and she nailed it,” Layer said.
Students said the creative process was just as enjoyable as performing. Seventh-grader Alaina Bray, who played Hagatha the Witch from “Hansel and Gretel,” said she embraced the role. “I am the cook of the castle – I am trying to eat all the sweets – the sweets are characters,” she said. Bray added that she enjoyed experimenting with props, including oven mitts, and getting to know her castmates. “There are so many personalities coming together and creating flow.”
Seventh-grader Kennedy Garrett, who played Cinderella and the Pea Princess, said acting allowed her to step into familiar stories in a new way. “It is really fun just being able to see what it feels like to be the character from the story,” she said.
The production highlighted not only the talent of Tallulah Falls School’s middle school students but also the broad support and mentorship provided by the school community.
