News

Annual children’s play takes audiences to summer camp – with some unexpected surprises

CHELMSFORD, Massachusetts (Feb. 6, 2026) – The Chelmsford High School Theatre Guild is heading to summer camp for its latest production.

This year’s children’s play, “How (Not) to be Human,” is written and directed by CHS junior Kalea Lamb and features a wonderful ensemble cast.

“It’s kind of based off my own experiences at camp,” she said of coming up with the idea for the play. “The cast and crew has been working really hard and they’re definitely going to give an incredible performance.”

Ruben is the lovable main character who thinks he is in for a normal summer camp and is looking for some new friends. His plans take an unexpected turn when he finds runaway aliens in the woods and must help them to fit in to escape evil scientists, all while battling his own teenage awkwardness.

Ruben is portrayed by freshman Tyler Bianchetto.

“It’s been fun playing this shy, reserved character because I am more outgoing,” he said.

Freshman Rebecca Gemelli who plays Dahlia, said she’s both excited and nervous for opening night.

“This is kind of a new experience for me,” she said. “I’ve done a lot of shows, but I’ve never really had a big role with a lot of lines.”

Freshman Lars Skoog plays Cas, an alien, describing him as “the most fun character on the stage.”

“There’s definitely a lot more freedom to have fun and go a little bit off script for the sake of making the show even more entertaining,” he said about being involved in a show that’s geared toward children.

Lucy Dilworth, who plays Frankie, said she has never been in a play before, and was thrilled to have this opportunity.

“I can’t wait to see everyone’s reaction to how funny and sweet this play is,” she said. “Interacting with the cast members, practicing lines and doing the blocking with everyone has been so memorable and I will never forget it.”

Getting technical

In addition to acting roles, the CHS Theatre Guild’s children’s play also offers younger students the opportunity to gain experience behind the scenes.

Freshman Rithvika Varma, the lighting director for the play, said she has always been interested in the technical side of theater.

“I’m excited about running my first show individually,” she said. “I’ve never done this on my own before, so I’m excited to see how the audience reacts.”

Although he’s served as an assistant costume designer in the past, junior Cullen Walker said this is his first time being in charge of costuming for a show.

“I was going for a fun, campy vibe,” he said. “I’ve loved being able to be creative and think of fun ideas that will work well onstage.”

Freshman Ella Zawaski, the set designer, said she’s thoroughly enjoyed her time working on the children’s play.

“It’s such a great way for underclassmen to gain experience in theater; it’s so fun and there’s no pressure,” she said. “I’m really looking forward to seeing the set come to life on opening night.”

If You Go

WHAT: “How (Not) to be Human” – CHS Theatre Guild’s Children’s Play

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 6, and Saturday, Feb. 7, at 6:30 p.m.

WHERE: Carl J. Rondina Performing Arts Center at Chelmsford High School, 200 Richardson Road

COST: Tickets are $5 and are available at the door

About Chelmsford Public Schools

The Chelmsford Public School District provides all students with multiple pathways to optimize their own potential for academic excellence, leadership, and social and emotional wellness. The mission of the Chelmsford Public Schools is to educate, engage, prepare, and empower well-rounded and knowledgeable learners to PERSEVERE through challenges, demonstrate RESPECT and INTEGRITY in their words and actions, are DEDICATED to their community, and display EMPATHY as global citizens while discovering and pursuing their full potential. This PRIDE-driven culture enables all members of the school community to support the growth and development of students. For more information, please visit www.chelmsfordschools.org.