The Mercedes Edwards Theatre (M.E.T.) located at Clark Intermediate School in Clovis, California, a cornerstone of the Clovis Unified School District, has recently undergone a significant and exciting expansion. This historic theatre, a vital hub for performing arts in the region, has enhanced its facilities with a substantial 7,000 square foot addition to its backstage area, promising enhanced opportunities for students and elevated theatrical productions.
Backstage Transformation Enhances Student Experience at Mercedes Edwards Theatre
For decades, the Mercedes Edwards Theatre, originally built in 1942, served as a central performance venue for all Clovis Unified high schools. However, the limitations of its original backstage space presented logistical challenges for students involved in theatrical productions. Previously, the constrained area forced students to navigate outside the theatre and utilize distant classrooms for dressing and preparation, a cumbersome process that detracted from the seamless flow of performances.
Alt text: Drama students excitedly demonstrate the spacious new backstage area at the Mercedes Edwards Theatre in Clovis, highlighting the benefits of the recent expansion.
The newly completed expansion dramatically transforms this situation. Students now benefit from a dedicated 2,000 square foot scene shop and workspace, providing ample room for set construction and creative endeavors. Furthermore, the addition includes two well-appointed dressing rooms, a specialized makeup room, and conveniently located restrooms, all within the backstage area. This comprehensive upgrade streamlines the entire production process, offering students a more professional and comfortable environment.
Student and Faculty Enthusiasm for Theatre Upgrade
Sloane Rosa, a drama student at Clovis Unified, expressed her excitement about the enhanced possibilities the expanded Mercedes Edwards Theatre provides. “As we have more room to work on our show and more ways to enhance, I think that leaves us more room to grow,” Rosa stated, emphasizing the positive impact of the new space on the creative potential of student productions.
Alt text: Close-up of Sloane Rosa, a Clovis Unified drama student, enthusiastically sharing her positive experience with the Mercedes Edwards Theatre backstage expansion and its benefits for student growth.
Deputy Superintendent Norm Anderson highlighted the financial backing from Measure A bond dollars that made these crucial upgrades to the Mercedes Edwards Theatre possible. While acknowledging that the expanded backstage is primarily for student use, Anderson emphasized the broader community benefits. “Really, this is more for our performers and our backstage career technical education students to really create a space where they can do their best work and put on some of the best shows in our community,” Anderson explained, linking the improved facilities to enhanced performance quality for the community to enjoy.
Alt text: Deputy Superintendent Norm Anderson explaining how Measure A bond funding supported the Mercedes Edwards Theatre expansion project, benefiting students and the Clovis community through improved performing arts.
Susan Kehler, a retired drama teacher with decades of experience at Clovis High, underscored the significance of this investment in the performing arts. Kehler sees the expansion of the Mercedes Edwards Theatre as a validation of the dedication and talent of the students who grace its stage. “It’s a gift to those of us that came before. It’s a gift for those kids who are here now, and it’s a gift for those incredibly fortunate youngsters that are coming up,” Kehler remarked, highlighting the lasting legacy and future impact of the upgraded theatre.
Experience the Talent at Mercedes Edwards Theatre
While the backstage expansion at the Mercedes Edwards Theatre remains unseen by the audience, the enhanced student experience and production quality will undoubtedly be evident on stage. Audiences are invited to witness the talent nurtured within these improved facilities. Clovis North High School is presenting “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” on Friday and Saturday at the Mercedes Edwards Theatre, offering a perfect opportunity to support these young performers and appreciate the fruits of this significant investment in performing arts education within the Clovis Unified School District.
