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The productions apparently will be the final ones directed by Todd Adam Decker, the Bexley City Schools theatre director for the past two years. He resigned at the March 15 Bexley Board of Education meeting after learning that his two-year contract wouldn't be renewed.

Some theatre students and parents were at the March meeting to show support for Decker. Feelings were still running high when cast members spoke about Decker's role in Bexley schools and in their own lives.

"The rehearsals have been bittersweet, because this means the last chance I will have to work with him," said junior Lauren Cooper. "He's the best, and we feel lucky that we've had him for the time we had."

Junior Kara Kleiman said she is heartbroken that Decker is leaving. "I can't imagine what it will be like without him," she said. "He's instilled something in us and I'll remember what he has given us."

Senior Martin Neff said that he had no interest in performing until Decker's theatre class. "He's taught me so much," he said.

The repertory-theatre style of the two spring plays is unusual for a high school, Decker said.

"It is a lot more difficult to do two shows at the same time, particularly because there are no crossover leads," he said. "I had so many talented students auditioning that by doing two plays, I could cast as many as possible and give a large group the opportunity to perform. Presenting shows in repertory should truly set the bar for acting quality here at Bexley."

Both shows use the same set, with a few changes, such as the furniture.

The set was designed and built as part of a technical theatre class under the instruction of Dave Valentine, BHS shop and global technology teacher.

According to junior Darren Ezzo, he and senior John Sarvas, along with volunteer parents and students, constructed the wood set, which is built like a house.

Assistant director for both shows is Andy Barrett, a sophomore at Otterbein College in Westerville. Barrett and Decker worked together at Interlocken World Center for Arts Education and both appeared in a production of The Mousetrap at Fort Hayes Arts & Academic High School.

Eight cast members are in The Mousetrap; 14 are in Arsenic & old Lace. There are approximately 20 crew members for both shows.

Kleiman said it's the first time she has done comedy. "It's really challenging," she said.

Junior Davey Ballantine, who plays a detective in The Mousetrap, said his part has many dimensions. He has been in all of Decker's productions during the past two years and plans to pursue acting in college.

Tickets cost $6 for a single performance and $10 for a show combination. The dinners on May 22 and 23 cost $12 each. For more information, call Amy Johnston Blosser at 231-4591.