Do you enjoy musicals? Are you a fan of mystery and extravagance? Regardless of whether you are drawn to musical theatre or not, The Phantom of the Opera on stage is well worth the ticket. With an iconic soundtrack, intriguing characters, and skilled actors and actresses, the play will entice all audiences, regardless of their interest in classic musicals.
Recently, a group of French students at Hanover High School took a field trip to see Phantom performed live at the Boston Opera House. The play is based on a 1910 French novel by the same name written by Gaston Leroux. The story has inspired many movies and play productions because of its dramatic and original plot. In the story, a female performer at the Paris Opera House catches the attention of a masked composer who hides below the Opera to conceal his disfigured face. Christine, the singer who attracts the concealed “Phantom,” must choose between an admirer from her childhood and the mysterious, often unpredictable composer. Though the play contains elements of tragedy, the convincing performances by the actors, the beautiful stage sets, and the dramatic music make the experience of seeing the play exciting and suspenseful.
Before watching the play, French teachers Mrs. Dhommee and Mrs. Youngworth took their students to Brasserie JO, a Boston restaurant that serves French cuisine. Students ate from a delicious selection of foods, including French onion soup, a variety of sandwiches, and a plate of French desserts such as crème brûlée. Some even tried escargot—and liked it, for the most part!
Overall, the day served as an enriching learning experience, exposing students to aspects of French culture from baguettes before lunch to French literature performed on stage. It is uncommon for students to leave high school for the day to travel into Boston and experience so much culture firsthand, and it will be an unforgettable experience for all who attended. I highly suggest seeing The Phantom of the Opera when it comes back to Boston again, or wherever it finds you in the future!
Dirty Work: Started two years ago, this club meets after school weekly to use their green thumbs to help better our gardens and communities. The plot they’ve tended, located near the school courtyard, has grown wildflowers as well as tomatoes, zucchini and other vegetables. Advised by Mrs. Emerson (room 215) and Mrs. Curtis (room 208), Dirty Work members have high hopes and big plans for expanding their garden and community impact.
Drama Club: The drama club puts on a few big performances each year, directed by Ms. Snavely. This fall, students are working on the musical Oklahoma, which will debut in November. If you’re not comfortable being in the spotlight, you can always help behind the scenes as a member of the crew.
Friendship Connection: Advised by Mrs. Gately (room 308), this club is absolutely life-changing, and allows you to make incredible friendships with special needs students. This club participates in Special Olympics and Unified sports, where special needs students and their peers compete side by side. 
LitMag: The literary magazine allows you to express yourself through short stories, poetry, essays, artwork and photography. Advised by Ms. Fay (room 208), the magazine is accepting submissions for the first issue.
Red Cross Club: A few times a year, there is a blood drive that takes place here at our school and allows all who are eligible to give blood. This club organizes and staffs the blood drives and raises money for the Red Cross efforts in the community. It is advised by Mrs. Curley (room 110) and Mrs. Davis (Nurse’s office).
The Hawk 