Monsters, Magic, and Memories: A Recap of She Kills Monsters
PC: Onamika Dey
In October, Notre Dame’s theater program put on an impressive production of “She Kills Monsters.” Although the name may not ring a bell with most people, the fantasy play was a unique and engaging experience for both its audience and the team of students that made the production possible.
“She Kills Monsters” is a drama-comedy play written by Qui Nguyen that is set in the 1990s. The play follows the story of Agnes Evans, a girl who loses her younger sister Tilly in a car accident. Agnes and Tilly were polar opposites, with Agnes being a school cheerleader and Tilly being a geek. Following Tilly’s sudden death, Agnes discovers her sister's old Dungeons and Dragons materials. With the help of Tilly’s friends Agnes begins playing the game and becomes transported into a fantasy world. She discovers new things about her sister, like how she struggled with bullying and her sexuality when she was alive, and is able to connect with her sister's life. The play explores grief, identity, and family while combining comedy and emotion.
The theater team began preparing for this production at the beginning of August and worked hard until the showings in late October. Three months of work required a team of diligent students with varying jobs. The actors in the spotlight worked together with the technical and design teams, who operated backstage. Acting, costuming, prop making, set design, lighting, and sound direction were all necessary for the cohesiveness of the play. The unique stage elements and costumes helped to emphasize the fantasy theme and the story that the actors portrayed.
The theater team put on a total of five amazing shows that received praise from audiences. Aanya Shah ‘25, an assistant stage manager, said she especially enjoyed “working with different people and getting to meet new people'' during the process of the play. As we approach the new semester, Notre Dame looks forward to the theater program's spring play, “The Lightning Thief,” and all future performances. Bravo to “She Kills Monsters” and the theater team!
