Endicott College 'Polaroid Stories' is a Visceral Performance

We all have a story to tell. Don’t let anyone else control the pencil of your journey.

Endicott College Performing Arts brings Polaroid Stories to life. But not on the stage. Due to the pandemic, Polaroid Stories had a unique obligation of trying out something new. In this virtual event, theatre and film unite to build a story of images reflecting how drugs negatively influence us.

Polaroid Stories is a set of visceral stories by Naomi Iizuka. Each segment captures actual accounts of those who have battled with drug addiction. In a blend of mythological and real-life narratives told by street kids, Polaroid Stories bequeaths segments of gutwrenching tales. We all have a story to share. Let our stories not be silenced.

The cast of Polaroid Stories did an exemplary job of connecting to characters, some very tough to grasp. Ranging from freshmen to seniors, I am very proud of the cast for putting their utmost focus into this show, especially during a pandemic. All members of the cast stood out delivering several deep monologues.

Directors Katie Clarke and Brittany Paskos wanted their actors to take control. Actors made their characters their own. In each segment, characters Introduced themselves as someone who battles with substance abuse, describing how the drug takes over their mind and learning what gets taken from them. My favorite aspect of some of the segments was how some were interpreted as drugs, following, insulting, and using stinging words.

Without the filmmaking class at Endicott College, the show would not be what it is. A big hand goes to everyone involved who filmed and edited Polaroid Stories. They planned out shots and went through a long editing process molding it together. For anyone interested in the filmmaking world, this show is an inspiring example.

With a little theater magic along with guidelines for social distancing, students were able to safely administer scenes with masks, standing at a distance of six feet, or with plexiglass. Polaroid Stories was filmed for over a month, filming in locations around Beverly such as a beach, neighborhoods, a playground, and around the campus of the college.

Katie Clarke and Brittany Paskos brought to life a deep outlook of what drugs can do to you. The show was a challenge. For the actors, in direction, and to edit together as a story. They captured the genuine stories of people who want to make a change in the world. Their direction, integrity, and passion delivered a profound show.

The theater has found new and different methods to evolve throughout this tough year. Joining together virtually over Zoom, director Katie Clarke commented, “I can still feel the energy over Zoom.” I agree. I could just imagine the audience’s stone-quiet reactions to moments of horror or laughing at funny moments. The theater is all about audience reaction. Audiences are one of the most important aspects of theater as we are broadcasting messages.

The subject matter is not for all audiences. Drug abuse may be triggering. Drugs are a heavy theme throughout the show. Be aware that there is strong language throughout. And there are moments where strobe lighting effects are used.

I recommend that you look into catching a show of Endicott College's Polaroid Stories. Viewing a show online was a very different experience. A good difference. It attracts your whole attention and makes it more intense.

My eyes were glued to the screen waiting to see what would happen next. There is still an intermission where you can get up and stretch your legs or grab a snack. Polaroid Stories is a show that makes you connect.