Alief Elsik High School - Ramblings Yearbook (Houston, TX)

Page 122 text:

The story behind the star “Biggest high in the world for me is to hear an audience laugh and applaud. It’s one of the best feelings I’ve ever felt.’’These are the words of Chris Ayres, one of the most distinguished performers in the Elsik High School Drama department. His very first inspiraton to act was triggered by Roddy McDowell and Vincent Price’s stunning performances on the screen. Thereafter, he knew his heart had succumbed to the “theatre,” which he defines as a realm of life where fantasy can become reality. He has since done over 100 plays during his eleven years of intense involvement in the theatre. One of the peak moments in his career was the 1981 State speech tournament. As a result of his outstanding performance playing Dudley Moore in “Beyond the Fringe,” one of the judges beamed that “Dudley deserves an Oscar. He’s a ten.” However, Chris has had some less than spectacular times. Once he was criticized for being too short, thus preventing him from winning that role. He rcmincsces, “I was mad after all, wasn’t Napoleon short?” And, what is his opinion about the Elsik Drama Department? Chris declares, “Mr. St. Claire is one of the best directors that we’ve ever had. Everyone is enjoying a great year.” He adds, “Mr. St.Clairc is more than merely a teacher. He’s a real friend who cares alot about the students he works with.” Interestingly enough, his favorite colors are red and black. The red symbolizes passion and ambition, which perfectly matches his personality. In fact, his visions for the future arc quite firm: “I want to be like Danny Kaye is on Broadway.” So, he has talent, ability, and years of invaluable experience, the ingredients that spell success. But what does he feel about life in general? Of course: “All the world is a stage. . by Yui Choe 118 Feature: Chris Ayres

Page 121 text:

Princess Winnefred (Teri Thornton) demonstrates to Prince Dauntless (JefT Montgomery) her Sally Dipasupiland Brian Rivcsincostumcfor determination to pass any test. N. St. Clair photo. dress rehearsal. C. Bell photo. Drama Play 117

Page 123 text:

PERFORMERS Jazz It Up Spotlights and audiences, glamour and praise. Performing is much more than that. Just ask those who know best - the entertainers! Freshman or Senior. North or South, nothing could matter less when the lights are blinding your eyes and nerves have overtaken your senses. Charles Stinneford speaks for the others when he says. “Performing is a way of expressing yourself without feeling many oftsidc pressures. It allows you to be yourself and feel good about what you're doing.’’Atul Shah adds that his involvement with the band “has been morethan worth theexpenseoflime and efTort. Gruelling practice and long hours of preparation arc. Plain and simple, hard work. But do these students mind? Ofeourse not!! As Debbie Strube puts it. Even though Revies is a lot of hard work, when you bring home a sweepstakes trophy, it’s worth it. A true performer can suffer months of getting ready for that one big chance. When the applause sounds or the award is received, they arc repaid for their efforts. Soon after, they arc revived from their exhaustion and arc ready to start all over again. Most would tell you it’s work disguised as fun. but we really know it’s the other way around. Laurie Boydstun comments that “cheer- leading is a lot of hard w ork and takes up a lot of time, but it’s also a lot of fun! by Debbie Strube i.aurie BovdM) n - Cheerleading Charles Stinneford - Drama and Speech Atul Shah - Ram Band Mindy Campbell and Leslie Lawless help fire up the football crowd. Fred Petersen and Carla Sorlcy practice their solos for the infamous Hastings game. Debbie Strube - Revellicrs Feature: Performers 119