Trey Lee and Connor Hamlin have been on the stage before, but never like this.

For the two juniors at Pell City High School, this week’s production of The Magic Treehouse: A Ghost Tale for Mr. Dickens, will see the two young actors taking on main roles for the first time. And they couldn’t be more excited.

Ghost Tale is based on Book #44 in the series, and Trey plays the title character – Charles Dickens. After years in the schools’ theater program, he said the role was easy to connect with. Mostly. 

“Dickens has hit a pointy where he was writing and writing and just couldn’t anymore,” Trey said. “I can understand. I write a lot, and there have been times when I thought, “What else can I do?”

So, what’s been the toughest part for him then? The accent.

“I always talk really fast, and it’s so much easier to stumble when you’re using a British accent,” he said.”

Connor has seen the stage twice in his PCHS Drama career, but he’s never been in a central role either. His role of Merlin, the wizard who sends the other lead characters of Jack and Annie to the past using the Magic Treehouse, could be difficult to convey to an audience. But he said there’s nothing to fear.

“Shrek had a dragon on stage, so we’ve taken things much farther into the unbelievable than a wizard,” Connor said. “Merlin helps the main characters solve problems, and he’s very proud of them. Kids will love his costume, and adults will like his message.”

Both young actors said their preparation for the part has included rehearsals two or three nights a week, many times until 8 p.m. or later. They were both quick to thank the production crew and other cast members for providing the support they needed.

“I’ve been in supporting roles before, and it’s taught me not to take my position for granted,” Trey said. “I couldn’t do it without everyone putting in just as much effort as I have. The credit really goes to them.”

Ghost Tale kicks off on Thursday, November 17 at 7 p.m. in the CEPA Theater. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children at the door. The play runs through Sunday, Nov. 20.

For more, visit pellcitycepa.com

– Photographs and Copy courtesy of CEPA Management