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Audience members in Tullahoma won’t have to travel far to enjoy the beach, as the high school theater department is bringing “Afternoon At The Seaside” to the stage starting this Thursday.

The play is a one-act comedy that takes place on a bustling beach during a summer afternoon. As beachgoers enjoy their afternoon, theft takes place and brings together a group of quirky characters with hidden motives. With its quick dialogue and blend of humor and suspense, “Afternoon At The Seaside” offers a fun, intriguing mystery for audiences.

This year’s fall production is student-directed, as Richa Patel has been the lead director on “Afternoon At The Seaside”. As opening night draws closer, Richa said she’s experienced some nerves but has also enjoyed working behind the scenes and ensuring all is ready for Thursday evening.

“Things have been going really well. We’ve been on task with everything, and it’s been really fun,” Richa said. “I’ve been making a lot of connections with the cast and crew. It feels great to do something that is out of my shell.”

While Richa is the director of the production, THS theater teacher Benjamin Spurlock has been aiding her when she has questions or needs assistance. According to Richa, his input is extremely valuable and has helped her so much throughout her high school career. 

“Ever since my freshman year, I’ve been learning from Mr. Spurlock. He’s taught me a lot of different tricks and given me tips, and everything that he has taught me has been super helpful,” Richa said. “The show opens on Thursday and I’m kind of nervous, but kind of excited. I have a bit of mixed feelings. Although, I am very confident it will be a good show.”

Her castmates agree and cannot wait to bring the production to life. Hannah Warta, who plays Mrs. Crumb, said she’s had so much fun with her character.

“I’ve played many characters here at the high school, but none have been mean like Mrs. Crumb. It’s just really fun to explore that character in this setting,” Warta said. “I’m so excited to bring this to the stage. I think Mrs. Crumb will be a fan-favorite, even though she is mean. She’s just entertaining to watch – as all the characters are. This play has such a good plot and a great storyline, so I think everyone is going to enjoy it.”

Rani Patel, who plays The Beauty, agreed with Warta and said she’s had so much fun with her character. As Rani explained, The Beauty is a French woman, so she’s been having fun during rehearsals, trying to get the accent down.

“After we do scenes, we as castmates will give each other notes and things like that. It gets really fun when we give each other feedback,” Rani said. “I love getting to play with the accent that my character has; I’ve never played a role with an accent, so this is a first, so I’m really excited for the play to debut.”

“Afternoon At The Seaside” launches Thursday and runs until Sunday. Thursday and Friday nights will feature an evening performance that begins at 6 p.m. Saturday will feature two showings, one starting at 2 p.m. and another at 6 p.m. Sunday will close with a 2 p.m. matinee performance. Tickets are $5, and more information about the production, including advanced ticket purchases, can be found here.