May 10-11: Periwig Presents “Puffs”

By Story Taylor ‘27

Lawrenceville’s production of “Puffs,” which follows the story of three young wizards trying to make it through their time at a magical school, will be on stage at the Kirby Arts Center May 10-11. Directed by English Teaching Fellow Gabrielle Lescadre, this play has been in the works since February, and the students involved are eager to perform before live audiences.

Sofia Carlisi, a Fifth Former and loyal member of the Periwig Club, is performing in “Puffs” this weekend. Carlisi has been heavily involved with the theatre department since her Second Form year, and mentioned that “theatre has always been something [she] wanted to pursue here.” Her first experience in performing arts at Lawrenceville was playing Puck in Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” staged outside I the Bowl due to COVID restrictions. Carlisi noted that because she had such a great time in that production, she “knew she wanted to be involved with Periwig in any way that [she] could.” Since then, Carlisi has been a part of every show, whether she was acting or managing the stage.

In “Puffs,” Carlisi is playing Leanne, an energetic and bubbly “Puff” who brings people together in desperate times. “To me, she has always been one of those characters who really appreciates everything that’s around them and can see the beauty of the world,” she said. Carlisi also appreciates this character’s individuality as well as her vibrant costumes.

This performance is a Harry Potter parody, but Carlisi stated, “even if you don’t know everything about Harry Potter, you can still enjoy the show.” She noted that though it is a great show for people who enjoy the books and movies, it is mainly about the underdogs of a story, and how the non-heroes can be even more interesting than the main characters. Carlisi said that she thinks the message of this show is “really important,” because “often we want to be the main characters of our own stories, but the rest of us are just… here. And that’s something that can be kind of scary.” She went on to say how fun it is to see a show that is based around regular people, who “might not do extraordinary things, but who are undoubtedly extraordinary characters.”

When asked about the environment within the cast and crew of this show, Carlisi stated that she could only describe it as “wholesome.” She noted how incredibly talented her peers are, and how amazing it is to be surrounded by people who can inspire her so deeply. Carlisi mentioned that while watching others play their parts, she takes notes and thinks about how she can incorporate their techniques to improve her own acting. “We break character all the time. When there’s a funny part, everyone just starts laughing. So, it’s such a stress-free environment when you can really thrive,” Carlisi said.

One particular moment that was especially meaningful to Carlisi was when Lescadre brought in a cake for the whole cast in appreciation for them. According to Carlisi, Lescadre came into rehearsal stating that she was “just so proud of them,” and wanted to share something she made to show her gratitude. Carlisi noted that it was a very heartwarming moment for everyone. “When I think of this cast of people, it’s one of those groups that I just want to give a big hug to,” Carlisi said.

Carlisi’s character, Leanne, has a monologue in particular that she feels has resonated with her the most. At one moment in the show, the “Puffs” must make a decision about whether or not they are willing to fight for an important cause. “It’s awesome because I have this monologue where I convince everyone to stay and do what’s right. It’s one of those moments that you really wouldn’t expect from my character,” she explained. She continued, saying that “the bond the ‘Puffs’ have and how much they love one another is just adorable, and I’m so happy that’s the moment I get to bring to the show.”

As she prepares to graduate from Lawrenceville, Carlisi hopes that all students will consider trying their hands at theater.

“I’ve had such an amazing experience with this show and theatre here in general,” Carlisi stated. “Even if you don’t consider yourself a theatre person, it’s a bonding experience and a moment to break out of your shell and try something you’ve never done before.”

While theater takes hard work and great effort, working with the other students and directors to create a show is worth it in the end. “The directors give us so much positivity, encouragement, and constructive criticism. They always inspire us and boost our confidence,” Carlisi said. She mentioned that the adults in the theatre department always give her the support she needs to keep auditioning for shows and putting herself out there.

“Puffs” will be staged in the Kirby Arts Center Black Box Theater on May 10-11. Curtain rises at 7 p.m. All tickets are first come, first serve.

Photo credit: Kathlynn Yao ‘25

 For additional information, contact Lisa M. Gillard H'17, director of public relations, at lgillard@lawrenceville.org.