The Arts at St. Margaret’s brought a spooky classic to the stage last week with the Middle School production of Ichabod! in the McGregor Family Theater. Adapted from Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, the play was directed by Middle School theater teacher Katie DeShan and assistant directed by Corinne Samskey, Middle and Upper School math teacher.

Featuring a spirited cast of 40 students and a technical crew of 21, the production captured the eerie charm of Sleepy Hollow with humor, suspense, and a touch of fun swooning. “This play is not just about retelling a classic spooky tale,” said Ms. DeShan. “It’s about engaging with it together as a community.”

The immersive set, created by theater tech students under the guidance of Technical Director Gordon Richins and Production Assistant Justice Musick-Corson, transported audiences to the 1820s countryside. Lighting design by Gavin Shams (’26) and atmospheric sound effects including school bells, orchestral music in the style of Bridgerton, and well-timed shrieks added to the haunting ambiance.

Austen Robertson (’29) starred as the quirky new schoolmaster Ichabod Crane, whose arrival in Sleepy Hollow set off a series of ghostly and comedic events. Reese Maciariello (’29) played the charming Katrina Van Tassel, while Jake Norton (’29) portrayed the mischievous Brom Bones, who kept Ichabod on edge with relentless pranks. The story was narrated by a chorus of students who added clever wordplay and wit to each scene.

From choir rehearsals to spirited town gatherings, each moment on stage was filled with lively performances, sharp comedic timing, and creative character work. The period costumes, designed by Kirk Stefferud, and strong backstage leadership by student stage manager Soren Forer (’29) and assistant stage manager Rowan Harvey (’30), helped bring the production to life.

Congratulations to the cast and crew of Ichabod! for an amazing production!