Upper School Production of "Puffs" Leads Audiences on a Magical Journey of Self-Discovery

The Upper School production of "Puffs" opens as an owl arrives to deliver a message to an orphaned boy who finds himself summoned to a famous school of magic and wizardry in England. But this is not the hero of the famous book and film series. Instead, our main character is Wayne Hopkins, a resident of New Mexico who lives with his uncle, who fells the owl with a hunting rifle. 

The narrator relates our story of Wayne as he joins the school of magic, developing friendships with Olivia, Megan, and the other students sorted into “Puffs,” the house, to which a certain sorting hat has relegated them. The "Puffs" are regarded as uncool kids by the other students and faculty of the school of witchcraft and wizardry, enduring trials and tribulations as a result of their house status. 

Struggling to ascend above their mediocrity and succeed amid the well-known plot machinations of the school's most famous residents, Wayne, Olivia, and Megan grapple with their self-worth and learn the value of loyalty, courage, and friendship. They rise to the circumstances and become the heroes of their own stories, leaving a legacy that inspires future generations of wizards. 

Along with Harry, we're treated to other famous characters from novels and films, the most riveting of which is Mr. Voldy. With a stage presence that evokes evil incarnate, Mr. Voldy demonstrates feats of magic and witchcraft, including soliciting audience volunteers for bits of mind-boggling sleight of hand. 

By seating the audience literally on the stage, "Puffs" placed our community members in the midst of the action. This set design created an enveloping experience that required the audience to join in the magic as characters often entered and exited from their midst. From the floating candles in the entrance hallway to the multiple vertical levels of the school of wizardry, the magic and special effects, "Puffs" created a world all its own. 

Taipei American School's production of "Puffs" was an enchanting, immersive experience that offered a fresh, humorous take on a much-loved magical world. Through creative staging and a heartfelt story about overlooked heroes, the play captivated the audience, inviting them to share the ups and downs of Wayne and his fellow Puffs. The students' performances brought depth and charm to their characters, reminding us that even those who aren't in the spotlight can shine in their own ways. Great job to our student performers, costumers, and stage crew!