Bonner Springs High School - Totem Pole Yearbook (Bonner Springs, KS)

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BSHS W orks ‘Miracles’ William Gibson’s THE MIRACLE WORKER heartily christened the newly-constructed Pioneer Junior High stage for a rare three-night perform- ance, Nov. 17, 18 19, 1983. Upon arrival, 19-year-old Annie Sullivan, por- trayed by Emily Thomas, finds the Keller family in turmoil over tiny tyrant Helen, portrayed by Jonna Matthews. Captain Keller, (Christopher King), sternly rules with a secretly soft heart. Kate Keller, (Kathryn Thorn), yearns to reach her little daughter, sweetly cajoling Captain Keller into see- ing each situation her way. Cynical young James, (Randy Freeman), resents his stepmother, pities his half-sister, and wishes desparately to impress his impossible father. Finally, slinging unsolictied ad- vice at all who cross her path, Aunt Ev, (Venita Pine), is the definitive nosy relative who spent her visit munching in dismay at the others’ antics. After being assured by the doctor, (Kevin Lutrell), that Helen’s childhood illness was merely acute congestion, the Kellers are greatly relieved Soon, however, Kate learns that Helen’s fever has had more serious consequences, leaving the child both deaf and blind. As Helen grows older, the family tries to adjust. She is taken to countless specialists, every one offer- ing no hope, and many suggesting institutionaliza- tion. In a “one-more-letter” gesture to appease his wife, the Captain writes Dr. Anaganos, (Chris Thomas), who thereby sends Annie Sullivan, a stubborn and near-blind fighter. Annie pushes Helen into a world of civility, social rules, and ultimately language, haunted throughout by her own difficult past. Through the course of all Helen and Annie’s troubles, the others of the Keller household are busy discovering each other—and themselves. —by D. L. Swegle ANNIE DILIGENTLY FRIES to enjoy her meal before Helen explores her plate. JAMES (RANDY FREEMAN) and Mrs. Keller (Kathy thorn) find friendship in a silent moment. MEAL IIME AT I HE Keller home usually brought excitement and ex- asperation. 14 Events

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SENIOR EMILY THOMAS works diligently in the booth she was assigned to this year. enaissance Many Bonner students describe their experiences at the Renaissance Festival as something almost in- describable. Jeff Walker, a senior who spent his weekends working at a turkey booth during this year’s Festival, said, “The Renaissance Festival was a great experience. I had the chance to meet people that were my own age while I worked.” The Renaissance Festival is a gathering of craft- smen and theatrical performers out to re-enact a period in time that many people don’t know anything about—a period almost buried in the pages of history. Junior Randy Freeman, who worked at the Festival, said, “I have a lot of fun working at the Festival; it’s like living a great big fantasy game.” The Renaissance Festival, which is held on the grounds next to the Agricultural Hall of Fame out- sit e of Bonner, is an authentic recreation of a 16th oeitury village in the midst of a harvest celebra- tion. Upon entering the gates of the lushly wooded shire, the past becomes the present as visitors step back to a time of simple pleasures. More than 2,000 colorfully clad lords and ladies populate the village. Peasants and townfolk, minstrels and mer- chants, artisans and jesters mingle with royalty and guests in a hamlet where merriment reigns. Nine stages feature continuous entertainment of light-hearted drama and music. Mirth abounds in village lanes where street acts, magicians, storytellers, rope walkers, mimes and troubadors perform for the delight of passers-by. Lining the winding paths of the festival are the hand-hewn shops of 4 50 hand picked craftsmen from 15 different states. Their work exemplifies the arts produced during the Renaissance. Astrologers, psychics and Tarot card readers add mystical moments to this lushly wooded fantasy game come true. — by Kevin Luttrell BONNER STUDENTS Gerri Neal and Jimmy Burris take a break while working at the festival. Events 13

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POSING FOR A FINAL PORTRAIT, the “Miracle Worker” cast is pictured above. They are, lower row, Lisa Jordan, Patricia Neal, Kathy Thorn, Randy Freeman; upper row, Kristina Lenz, Kathy Jennings, Venita Pine, Chris Thomas, Jonna Mathews, Emily 'Thomas, Chris King, and Kevin Lut- trell. Events 15