Another winter dramatic show is approaching and this year’s production is To Kill a Mockingbird. Dan Cassini portrays Atticus Finch, the lead role in this production.

Cassini has been in the Hawthorne High School plays since freshmen year. This will be Cassini’s 5^th lead role in his high school career. Cassini was asked what his favorite one was so far.

He said, “There are too many to choose from, but if I had to pick one it would have to be It’s a Wonderful Life. I’ve enjoyed every one of them. Each one is like a new experience. Every show people gain new friendships. There is an unexplainable bond that we all have between the cast and crew. We all have such a great time and are so comfortable with each other. We spend mostly everyday with each other, from school and then right to play practice from 7:00-9:45.”

As crazy as the performance week may get, Dan still remains calm and gives it all he’s got. It is a big commitment, but Cassini still manages to keep his grades high and do other extracurricular activities. Cassini also plays soccer and wrestles.

Cassini was then asked what his favorite part of the play experience is and he stated, “…the play has always been like a family environment. Mrs. Hackett and Mrs. Griffin always make sure of that. They are always full of support and encouragement. All of my friends in and out of the show have been nothing but encouraging me and helping me throughout this entire production. If it wasn’t for all of them I don’t know where I’d be. The play has always been a place to come to surround yourself with such great people and give people one heck of a show to come see. I also grew up watching a lot of these familiar films, so its great to be able to play some of these characters.”

Cassini says that he has a great feeling that this will be yet another successful production for Hawthorne High School.

“There is always such a great turn out for every show we put on here.” he  said, “…it is such an honor to be chosen to have this role of Atticus Finch.”