This November, Jesuit High School Sacramento drama presented the fall play, “My Pandemic Love Story,” an original Black Box performance written by the cast. This production was a way for students’ to share personal anecdotes about their experience during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jesuit Drama Artistic Director Mr. Ed Trafton ’84 is happy that the audience was able to empathize with the cast’s performances.

“The feedback we got from those who attended was very touching: people were understandably moved by the sincerity and bravery of the students’ stories, and they frequently said that the students’ openness and reflection invited them to think about their own pandemic experiences,” Mr. Trafton said. “We couldn’t ask for better!”

Cast member Zachary “Zach” McDonald ’25 is thrilled with how well the play went. He also appreciates the opportunity to share his story.

“I think that this is one of the best plays we have done,” Zach said. “Openness and honesty are coded throughout all of Mr. Trafton’s shows, but allowing us to write our own stories is not heard of in a high school production and allows us to be our true selves.”

Cast Member Pierson Hancock appreciates the work of the tech team throughout the whole production.

“I am absolutely astounded with all of the cast and tech.” Pierson said. “We have a wonderful tech squad. They’ve done a great job.”

This play reaffirmed to Mr. Trafton that the drama team can put their minds together, innovate, and create a touching production.

“[The students] worked hard, took risks, reflected on some very difficult topics, opened themselves up, and shared their stories with our audiences,” Mr. Trafton said. “This play confirmed my belief that with hard work and focus, our students are capable of anything.”

“My Pandemic Love Story” allowed the Jesuit drama team to express their experience of the pandemic in a unique and beautiful way. The production of the play went smoothly and the actors are proud of their performances.