The University of North Georgia’s Dahlonega Theatre Guild has been preparing all semester long for its spring show, “Puffs”, which finally takes the stage in April.
“Puffs” is an original play by New York-based playwright Matt Cox. The play is a parody of the Harry Potter book series that focuses on characters inspired by the Hogwarts house, Hufflepuff. The comedic story focuses on the lesser-known students and their struggles surviving in a world that is beyond them.
Ryan Kelly, junior interdisciplinary studies major and president of UNG’s Dahlonega Theatre Guild, said cast members are preparing for the performance by focusing on specific blocking and making sure every movement and action has a purpose.
“When you’re on stage, everything counts, and we want to make sure every action taken is calculated,” Kelly said.
While there are many references to the original source material in the play, guests do not need to understand the background of the Wizarding World to be entertained.
“Puffs is most certainly a show for the super-fans and the Harry Potter geeks with plenty of inside jokes to laugh at,” Kelly said, “However, you don’t need to see any of the movies or read any of the books to enjoy the absurdity and humor of it all.”
Kelly said the guild is hoping to have a big turnout at the shows from people at UNG, the Dahlonega community and people from outside the area.
“We’re just a small club with big ambitions, but we hope to bring a smile to as many faces as possible,” Kelly said.
The show dates for “Puffs” are Apr. 5, 6, 12 and 13 at 7 p.m. and Apr. 7 and 14 at 4 p.m. All the performances will take place in the HOAG Student Center auditorium. Tickets will cost $5 for UNG students, faculty and staff and $10 for everyone else. They can be purchased at the door on the day of the show, at the link in the bio of @ungdah_theatre on Instagram or right here.
Kaitlyn Bache, junior marketing major and stage manager for “Puffs”, said seeing the play is a way to support fellow students while also exposing people to the opportunities the guild holds for anyone looking to join in the future.
“The cast and crew have worked diligently over the last three months to put this thing together, and they are so excited to share it with everyone,” Bache said.
Kelly said people should come see Puffs because it is an outrageously funny comedy with many relatable aspects dealing with the trials and tribulations of growing up.
“Puffs is for anyone looking to relax from life and enjoy a wonderful evening of magic and mayhem.” -Ryan Kelly, president of UNG Dahlonega’s Theatre Guild.
