The Southwest theatre program completed their casting for the fall production, “Peter and the Starcatcher,” on Aug. 14 and 15. This is the first show put on by a new Director, Mr. Austyn McKee, since the school opened in 2002. McKee is excited for his new role, particularly working with students.

“It is really important that students know I am a place in the building that anybody can come talk to,” McKee said. “I want students to feel comfortable talking to me, to know that I am open minded and that I am ready.”

After serving as the Director for 21 years, Mr. Bob Henrichs retired. Since he worked at Southwest since the school opened, the school has never seen another director. 

“I actually feel we are adapting really well to the new director,” senior Aubrey Falter said. “I think as a group we’re very easily adapted to change. He (McKee) is really great and it’s good to see a new perspective in theatre.”

McKee has been in theatre since the second grade. He has also been coaching theatre, doing one-act and speech since he graduated from UNL. He coached speech and theatre at Arlington Public Schools. Even though he is a little nervous, McKee is confident that this year’s show will live up to Southwest’s reputation. 

“Every person I’ve talked to has said I have really big shoes to fill but our production is definitely going to live up to Southwest standards,” McKee said. “I don’t say ‘Fake it until you make it,’ I say ‘Fake it until you become it.’ I’m going to fake it and then it’s just going to happen.”