Two students at Ballard High will go on an adventure around Vienna and it's all make believe as the school's drama department presents "On The Razzle," a play written by Tom Stoppard during a three night run staring on Jan. 24.

"It's a lot of fun. It has been one of the most tight productions I've done at Ballard. It's fast paced and the language is very adult. It has a lot of intelligent humor," said senior Dan Rector who plays the lead character "Weinberl." This is his seventh play at Ballard.

In "On The Razzle," "Weinberl," and his friend "Christopher," played by Jeff Gordon are two store employees who go on a madcap adventure while their boss is away.

"We work together. I go with him on his fiasco through Vienna," said Gordon, a sophomore who is now doing his third show.

"On The Razzle" is directed by Mark Handley, a screen writing teacher at the University of Washington. There are 20 cast members in "On the Razzle."

Handley offered his services as director and drama teacher Jennifer Delaney. Enthusiastically accepted. "I was thrilled when he asked to be guest director. I laugh at something different every time," she said.

The acting ability among the students has impressed Handley. "They are tremendous. They are great. They have the passion and commitment to do good work," said Handley.

Assistant director Erin Millman keeps the rehearsals and production moving and organized.

"I really like it. There are lots of sets, props and costumes changes. All the departments get involved. Plus it's hilarious, its a farce," said Millman.

With scene changes that include a town, two stores, a restaurant and a house, set designer Spencer Fife keeps busy. The senior has worked with his staff to build the sets from scratch.

"We position the set pieces. We need to know where everything needs to be. There are a lot of moving set pieces," said Fife.

Fife has a dual role in "On The Razzle." He also acts, taking on the role of August Sanders, the play's "ladies man."

"I get to kiss someone. It's not hard, it's a stage kiss, there is no real emotional value to it," said Fife.

There is plenty of action in the production. "There is more running around the stage. There is climbing and movement," said Gordon.

"There are set changes. We jump through windows, in and out of doors," said Rector.

The two lead actors are serious about doing drama after they graduate from high school. "I'm very interested in acting and play writing," said Rector.

"I want to act. Acting is one of my favorite things to do," said Gordon. He is looking into attending an arts college when he leaves Ballard.

"On The Razzle," is Jan. 24, 25 and 26 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 pre-sale and $6 at the door. The shows are at Ballard High School.

The spring show, which opens in April is the musical production of "Guys and Dolls."

Dean Wong may be contacted at 783.1244 or deanw@robinsonnews.com