“Lend Me a Tenor” at Pickerington Central

Helen Saunders (Brooke Culver), the general manager of the Cleveland Opera House, instructs her assistant Max (Oliver Bernstein) how to prepare for Tito Mirelli’s arrival. *Photo by River Scofield*

November 13, 2025
By Eve Copeland & River Scofield

The Pickerington High School Central Theatre Department presents its fall comedy, Lend Me a Tenor, Nov. 13–15 at 7:00 p.m. and Nov. 16 at 3:00 p.m. in the PHSC Performing Arts Center.

Director Andrew Martin said, “Set in the glamorous world of 1930s opera, Lend Me a Tenor is a fast-paced comedy of mistaken identities, slamming doors, and laugh-out-loud chaos. When a world-famous tenor arrives in Cleveland to perform for one night only, everything that can go wrong does—leading to a frantic evening filled with misunderstandings, disguises, and romantic mix-ups. This award-winning farce delivers non-stop laughter, quick wit, and classic theatrical fun for audiences of all ages. Tickets are available online! Hope to see you there!”

Senior Kayla McCoy, who plays Maria (the tenor’s long-suffering wife), said the play has “ots of physical comedy and it’s just light and it’s fun. You don’t really have to think about it—you just gotta come laugh. Tito Mirelli, the world-famous tenor, comes for their grand premiere and everything goes wrong. There’s mistaken identities and a who-dunnit—it’s so fun.”

Senior Brooke Culver, who plays Helen Saunders (the general manager of the Cleveland Opera House), added, “It’s so funny and the cast is so talented and it’s just a good time. Student pricing is just $11 while regular pricing is $16. You’ll have a good time.”

Senior Drew Nutter, who plays Tito Mirelli, summed it up simply: “A great show, really funny and not too long. Have a laugh and get out.”

Behind the scenes, students also played a major role in bringing the production to life. Phil Shepard, a sophomore, designed the set under the guidance of instructor James Johns.

Helen Saunders and Max greet Maria and Tito Mirelli (Kayla McCoy and Drew Nutter). *Photo by River Scofield*

“I had Phil read the script over and over,” Johns explained. “From there, we met with Mr. Martin, to ensure we aligned with his overall vision for the show. Once a vision was set, I had Phil start looking at the set and designing the framing, and he put together a lumber list. From there, we had the set crew and the Theatre Production classes assemble the set.”

Johns added that the show’s entire technical side—lights, sound, and effects—was designed and programmed by students.

“I’m very honored to work with a great director, staff, and support team,” he said. “The tech students have knocked it out of the park, and this is truly the first show I’ve given them complete control over. I am over the moon to see the growth of my entire crew on this production.”

This award-winning play promises quick wit, classic theatrical fun, and non-stop laughter for audiences of all ages.